Today we’d like to introduce you to Jen Davis.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I was introduced to pottery in high school and got hooked instantly. There was something about clay’s tangibility that was so appealing – I could get lost for hours whether hand building or on the wheel. In college, I decided to make art my focus, graduating from Michigan State University (Go, Green!) with a BFA in Studio Art.
Peach Tree was founded by my Aunt Linda in 1997, around the same time my interest in clay sparked. It was inspirational to see the studio grow over the years through her passion and hard work. She provided a welcoming space for students to create and for artists to show their work.
In 2011, my aunt passed away from ovarian cancer and her partner, my Aunt Care, kept her legacy going. In 2012, I moved to LA and started teaching classes at Peach Tree to help keep the business open. After a couple years of teaching and learning how to manage the day to day tasks, I became the studio owner.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Taking over Peach Tree was a bittersweet journey. Losing my aunt and the soul of the studio was of course the most bitter part. When I first got to LA, I really had no business teaching pottery, so there were many months of intense throwing, taking classes, and watching YouTube videos in order to get up to speed. With any small business, there are many hats to be worn, as well, which can be demanding.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Peach Tree Pottery is an intimate pottery studio and gallery for kids and adults interested in learning the basics of throwing on the potter’s wheel. Opened in 1997, our community of beginner and experienced artists continues to evolve, creating a dynamic space to explore your creativity and “get centered.” We offer single lessons, series classes, private instruction, and group parties.
I’m most proud of the welcoming space we provide for people to learn a new craft and unwind from their hectic lives. Peach Tree is the most inviting, relaxed studio in LA, as well as the most cost effective. Oh! And we have the best music playing while you work.
What were you like growing up?
I was pretty quiet and focused growing up. As an only child, I could entertain myself with silly putty on road trips from Michigan to Florida (no joke – the entire way.) I won a bronze medal in 3rd grade for my drawing of Santa and his reindeer (ha), so I was always into art. I was also sporty, playing softball, basketball, and volleyball in school. I preferred watching all in the Family and Beetlejuice to cartoons.
Contact Info:
- Address: 3795 Boise Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90066 - Website: www.peachtreepottery.com
- Phone: 310-567-2708
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peachtreepottery/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Peach-Tree-Pottery
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/peach-tree-pottery-los-angeles
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