José Melchor

Approach to Pottery

I am inspired by Eastern art, particularly Japanese and Korean ceramics. From Korea I really admire Buncheong and Onggi styles. Mishima, Bizen, Hagi, Seto, and Tokoname wares I like the most from Japan. Nevertheless, what I love the most about eastern pottery is its Zen-like forms and attitudes toward the craft. In Japanese and Korean pottery I find freedom from the, sometimes, rigid western traditions. In my work I envision a craft that emulates nature’s beauty.

In nature perfect symmetry is hardly encountered, however its chaotic conformation is beautiful nonetheless. A tree, a rock, the ocean, offer no symmetry, but their parts are nicely put together. That’s exactly what I want to transmit. I want to offer ceramics of the highest craftsmanship possible while keeping an air of nature in every piece.

I’m a perfectionist by nature, but a Zen/Wabi-sabi aesthetic is my goal. Through pottery I’ve learned that there is more joy in the pursuit of excellence than in the pursuit of perfection. Embracing imperfection is something liberating, something I want to communicate through my work. That’s not to say I throw quality out the window. I’m constantly challenging myself to be the best in every artistic endeavor, and life in general.   

Most of the pots I make are wheel thrown. I work primarily with Stoneware clay from local suppliers. I use glazes I mix myself using high quality materials. All glazes and clays are food safe. Finished pieces are fired at about 2269 F (~1243 C).