Today we’d like to introduce you to Kevin “Turkey” Merck.
Kevin “Turkey”, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
As a kid, I really enjoyed drawing, but once I was introduced to sculpting and ceramics right after high school, I immediately became obsessed with clay. In 2001, I began studying under a local master potter, Wayne Hewell. I apprenticed with Wayne for five years, during which time I learned how to work with clay, including firing and glazing. Although I studied under a master potter to learn the ceramic process, when it comes to sculpting, I suppose I would be considered self-taught since I have never received any formal training in that area.
When I first began working in ceramics, my primary focus was on fantasy-related sculptures, but being a big fan of horror films, I would typically create a horror-themed mug or jug around Halloween each year. In 2015, I decided to create a few zombie mugs in October, and the images went viral on Facebook, which leads to my current full-time job producing horror-themed ceramics.
Has it been a smooth road?
At the most basic level, ceramics is quite simple. But due to the organic nature of the materials and firing process, ceramics can quickly become extremely complicated… especially when you try to push the limits of the medium. These factors can present a real challenge, but I enjoy problem-solving, which is one of the aspects of ceramics that I find most interesting… and most frustrating.
Most of the time, I really struggle with sculpting. I find it difficult to get the design that is in my head to show up in the clay. At some point during each sculpt, I always hit a dead end where I cannot seem to figure out exactly where to go. But I have learned through experience to take a break, come back with fresh eyes and push through until I find something that is at least close to what I’m looking for.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
Over the past 19 years, I have been known for my fantasy and horror-related functional ceramic sculptures, which include jugs, vases and mugs. But during the past five years, I have gained a large following specifically for my horror-themed ceramic coffee mugs.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
LA is a great place for monster makers, like myself, due to the sheer number of extremely talented individuals and shops specializing in creature/monster design. I fly out to Pasadena each year so I can visit creature shops and attend Monsterpalooza to hang out with fellow monster makers and to gain fresh inspiration.
Contact Info:
- Website: turkeymerck.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/turkeymerck/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/turkeymerck/
Image Credit:
Turkey Merck
Suggest a story: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
