Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Goemaat. They and their team shared their story with us below:
Welcome to Mud Hen Clay and Art Studio, a vibrant creative space founded by Jennifer Goemaat. Our journey began within the walls of a Tustin home, where Jennifer, with unwavering support from her late husband, John Goemaat, and his family, transformed a humble two-car garage into the thriving space it is today.
In 2020, faced with the loss of her husband to cancer, Jennifer courageously stepped into the role of a sole provider, caring for her two children. Throughout this journey, the continuous support from extended family and friends and the staff that has become family played a pivotal role in nurturing her children and the studio’s continued success. Her resilience and determination not only sustained her family but also ensured the continuation of this cherished establishment.
The name Mud Hen Clay and Art Studio holds a special significance. Inspired by a homeschool session exploring the distinct American Coot, these unique water birds challenged conventions with their remarkable traits. This encounter ignited the vision for Jennifer’s next entrepreneurial venture.
Before Mud Hen, Jennifer successfully established Temecula Clay in 2008, passing on its legacy in 2018. In February 2023, Mud Hen Clay and Art Studio found its new home in the heart of Old Town Tustin, where it thrives by offering an array of pottery and art classes, personalized pottery sessions, and showcasing locally crafted pieces. The studio fosters a familial environment that continues to grow and positively impact the community.
As Jennifer eloquently states, ‘Just as clay that goes through fire to be strengthened, I believe we are also like that clay, continuing to be processed, refined, and strengthened daily.’ This sentiment reflects Mud Hen Clay and Art’s unwavering commitment to providing a nurturing space where creativity flourishes and individuals are empowered to thrive.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Balancing the growth of our business with being an involved and loving mother to my kids. I am fortunate enough to surround myself with people, friends, and family who support this business in its growth, and I really appreciate the impact they have had on our ability to both grow and be present.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Jennifer Goemaat is a seasoned ceramic artist based in Orange County, California. With over two decades of experience, she has cultivated a distinctive style in crafting pottery using clay and glazes. Her artistic journey has been enriched by her studies at Fullerton College and her apprenticeships under various potters over the years, each contributing to her growth and refinement.
Drawing inspiration from the malleability of clay under her fingertips, Jennifer sees her work as a reflection of life’s lessons in balance and patience. Rooted in her belief in the healing power of nature, she infuses her creations with elements that soothe the body, mind, and soul, forging a profound connection between art and Earth.
Known for her encouraging, descriptive, and inspiring teaching style, Jennifer opened her first studio in 2008, where she began sharing her passion for ceramics. Here, she guided others to discover the therapeutic and grounding nature of working with clay. In 2017, she relocated to Orange County, founding Mud Hen Clay And Art Studio, where she continues to nurture budding artists, empowering them to embark on their own creative odysseys.
Driven by a commitment to community engagement, Jennifer endeavors to make ceramic art more accessible, offering a sanctuary free from the distractions of modern life. Through her gallery space at Mud Hen Clay And Art Studio, she invites visitors to immerse themselves in the tactile beauty of her creations, inspiring a reconnection with both clay and their inner creativity.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Mud Hen was founded in our home garage some years ago. It was a passion project that turned into a dream to run.
Pricing:
- Clay Dates – $130
- Individual Classes – $60
Contact Info:
- Website: mudhenclayandart.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mudhenclayandart/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/mud-hen-clay-and-art-studio-tustin
