Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephen Davalos.
Hi Stephen, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Shortly before the pandemic my wife and family gifted me with pottery lessons which I had been interested in for a long time. When the pandemic hit, my wife and I both lost our jobs and had a lot of time at the house. I bought a used pottery wheel on Craigslist and the rest is history. I now sell pottery at event here and there and have my mugs at a few coffee shops across Los Angeles. Most of my work is inspired by my Chicano heritage and life as an Angeleno. I take a lot of inspiration from the artwork associated with Dia De Los Muertos. Every time I carve a Calavera into clay, I feel like I reaching into my roots and heritage.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Discipline has never been my strong suit so pushing to stay consistent with the amounts I make and the events and markets I do can be exhausting., as much as I do love them. I go through periods throughout the year where I’m not making as much as I’d like, but I am fortunate to have a full time job that I’m passionate about and do not have to rely on being a machine and produce ceramics constantly.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a hand-thrower and carver creating small-batch ceramics—mainly mugs, planters, bowls, and other functional pieces that carry a bit of my heart. Every piece is wheel-thrown and hand-carved, making each one completely unique. I’m known for my signature skull mugs, floral carvings, and Dodgers-inspired designs that often sell out quickly. My work is deeply influenced by my Chicano identity, and I take pride in calling it Chicano handmade. I approach each piece with intention, blending cultural storytelling, artistic detail, and functionality. The goal is to create pieces that people use every day, but that also make them feel something—whether it’s a sense of pride, nostalgia, or simple joy. It’s functional art, made with care and culture in mind.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I’ve always followed my gut, even when it didn’t make sense on paper. That’s how I ended up starting Stevie Dee Pottery. I didn’t have a roadmap, just this pull to create and share work that felt like home to me. I’ve learned to say yes to the things that scare me, whether that’s signing up for a market I don’t feel ready for, carving a design that feels beyond my skill set, or putting my culture front and center in my pieces. To me, risk isn’t about recklessness. It’s about trusting that inner voice, even when it’s shaky. Every time I lean into that discomfort, something good usually follows.
Pricing:
- Mugs cost from 30-60 dollars
- Vases range from 75-500
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Steviedeepottery.com
- Instagram: @steviedeepottery
