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I’m Christy Joy, a ceramic artist based in San Antonio, Texas. I named my small business Joyterra – “Joy” for my middle name which represents who I am, and “terra” for the earthen work that comes from my hands. I first touched clay when studying abroad in Florence, Italy in 2012 and have been in love ever since. I work in my garage studio and though I create alone, I find ceramics has connected me to my community through teaching workshops, consigning at local businesses, and meeting friendly faces at markets. I am so grateful for everyone who has supported my art in any form, be it purchases, affirmations, or sharing my work. Sgraffito is my signature style and I love exploring new techniques. My inspiration is sparked by magic in nature. This artform speaks to me because of the functionality – how each piece that I make can be enjoyed in everyday rituals such as sipping your morning coffee from a handmade mug. From the earth, through my hands, and into yours; each handmade ware is an exchange of energy in creativity and community.
Resume (PDF)
Work Samples (PDF)
MORE ABOUT THIS ARTIST
Artist Type: Visual Arts: Ceramist
Artist Statement of Work
Tell us about your work (style, approach, philosophy, subject and/or theme):
I am drawn to ceramics as an artform because of its functionality and the enticing creation process. I want my art to be interactive, serve a purpose, and exchange energy between maker and partaker. My pottery design is inspired by fantasy, whimsy, and the magic in nature. I love to work with themes such as stories, species, and seasons, and find that my creativity flourishes when I work in series. For moments such as this I’ll come up with a concept, sketch designs, carve my own stamps or templates, carefully pick shapes and colors, and do testing before making the final pieces. Most of the time however, I create without a plan and let the clay tell me what it wants to be. I’ll start with a form, and then the form inspires the motif that I’ll carve on the surface, and that motif will sway my choice of texture and color of glaze. Often these self-fulfilling prophecy types of creations are meant for exactly the person who is drawn to it, which fills me with purpose. Clay is my greatest teacher. I have learned so much about myself and acquired many skills through the intricate process of ceramics. Pottery teaches patience, focus, problem solving, adaptability, and the importance of letting go and beginning again among many more never ending lessons. There is no limit to what you can learn about pottery and from pottery. I believe I'll be exploring this medium for the rest of my life.
