Rising Stars: Meet Jerry Sawitz of Thousand Oaks

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jerry Sawitz.

Hi Jerry, 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?
My undergraduate degree was in Fine Arts. I attended California Lutheran University where I was first exposed to the world of ceramics. My Professor was Sir Bernardus Weber, knighted by the Dutch queen for his work in ceramics. I also began studying painting under the guidance of John Solem. While I was in graduate school at UCLA. I met Otto and Vivika Heino, internationally known ceramic artists. .They became my mentors and I worked closely with them for many years. They were instrumental in helping me get into my first gallery. I also continued my painting career studying with nationally known watercolor artist, Katherine Liu.
At that time I began my journey into wildlife art that eventually had me creating images for every major Aquarium and zoo in America, beginning with the Monterey Bay Aquarium. I also began a teaching career that continues after 45 years. Beginning in 2014 I dedicated my ceramic work to the world of crystalline glazes. I have since studied with Master Potter Ted Secombe of Australia and Jose Mariscal of Spain. I continue to exhibit my work in galleries and fine art shows.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I don’t personally know of any artist who has had a smooth road. For myself, I have had a gallery carrying my wildlife close because the FBI found out about fraud and owed taxes by the owner, a publishing company formed around my work close because the two owners hated each other and many other bumps in that road that i could tell you about if you wish.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
The ceramic work I do is in a very specific area: crystalline glazes. They are the most difficult glazes to master. There are literally dozens of things that need to go right to grow decent crystals in a glaze. What sets me apart is the incorporation of natural materials, mainly oak, into my thrown vessels. my wildlife painting is known for my ability to capture an animals essence through their eyes.

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Be patient, learn from everyone.

My mentor, Otto famously said,” Dont worry and never hurry”. He worked to age 94.

Pricing:

• ceramics range from $200-$2000
• paintings range from $2000-$$7000

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Jerry-Sawitz-ceramics.myshopify.com
• Instagram: @jsawitz
• Facebook: Jerry Sawitz