Today we’d like to introduce you to Alyssa Julian.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I first got involved in ceramics about four-five years ago, starting with taking a class at a community ceramics studio. After that class, which lasted for three months, I took a break to do some traveling, unsure of when I’d get back to the wheel (all the while knowing I had to!). I settled in Los Angeles after about three months of friends visiting and traveling around the country.
One day, while on a lunch break from my full-time job, I searched for pottery wheels on Craigslist. Coincidentally, I’d found an old ceramics teacher who was selling some of his equipment for well below market price, and I knew I had to jump at the chance. I started setting up my home studio, which allowed for me to explore my creativity and work on my own time.
One thing led to another, and I realized I was dedicating more time to ceramics than any of my other interests. I’d decided to pull the trigger and purchase a gently used kiln on eBay, from an elderly woman who wasn’t putting it to use as often as she’d liked. Around that time, life had a funny way of showing me that I needed to pursue my passion, and I was granted an opportunity to work more full on in clay.
Now, I spend more time at my wheel than anywhere else!
Has it been a smooth road?
It hasn’t been too terribly bumpy! Just a few blips along the way, but it’s all part of the learning process. 🙂
We’d love to hear more about what you do.
I make ceramics and blind contour art prints at my home studio in Silver Lake, LA. My pieces are all directly inspired by my time spent in nature, using the colors of CA as my palette — mostly soft, warm browns and creamy whites.
Similarly, my prints are inspired by things I see during my day to day life in LA: farmers market produce, the curves of Joshua Tree, etc. I’m most proud of the organic growth and progression of my brand as I’ve developed as a person and come into myself more.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
I think we’re in such an interesting time in consumer trends — in Los Angeles specifically — and I only see it going up from here. It’s so exciting and inspiring to see people shift toward supporting small, local businesses and I hope it continues to go that way!
I never really expected to be doing this full time, so I’m curious to see how that continues in the coming years, and I’m sure many others can say the same.
Contact Info:
- Website: alyssamjulian.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alyssamjulian/
- Facebook: fb.me/alyssamjulian1
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
