Meet Our Member: Aaron Chan

Aaron Chan, @pottery_ac, took one class last fall and hasn't looked back.

When did you first fall in love with pottery?

My love for pottery began in September 2024, during my very first hand-building class—which, amazingly, happened to fall on my birthday. That experience sparked a creative connection that has continued to grow ever since.

How has working with clay made a difference in your life?

Working with clay has allowed me to both uncover and reconnect with my artistic spirit. It has become a meaningful creative outlet, a meditative process through which inspiration flows from my mind to my hands. It brings me peace, clarity, and a purposeful focus in everything I create.

Do you have a favourite piece you’ve made so far and what is the story behind it?

It’s difficult to choose just one, but I’d say it’s a tie between my carved tiles and a drinking horn mug. The horn mug was inspired by pieces I’d admired at Renaissance Faires—I’d always wanted one and decided to try replicating the aesthetic in clay.

Horned Mug

I’m quite proud of how it turned out. The carved tiles, on the other hand, are deeply personal, reflecting my cultural heritage. They were a joy to make, especially since carving was a relatively new skill for me. I think they’re some of my most visually striking work to date.

Favorite tool?

I’d have to say the Euclid stainless steel carving tool—specifically the 558. It’s precise, comfortable to use, and has become an extension of my hand in the creative process.

Favorite clay?

White clay is my preferred medium—it’s wonderfully malleable and easy to work with, especially for hand-building projects. It allows for both precision and freedom in shaping forms.

Raku Fired Vase

Best local spot?

Sawyer’s BBQ.  They have great food, great drinks, and a great staff.  Everyone there has always been extremely friendly and welcoming.

What do you like to listen to when you work?

It really depends on the mood of the piece I’m working on. Sometimes it’s music on shuffle, other times it’s an audiobook. I try to match the tone and energy of the audio to the creative atmosphere I want to foster in my work.

What is your next pottery goal, or skill you’re most keen to learn?

My next goal is to experiment with marbled clay—I’m excited about the unique patterns and depth it can bring to a piece. I’m also eager to refine my skills on the wheel. After completing an 8-week wheel class, I found my rhythm around week five or six and would love to continue building on that progress.

What is the best part of being a member of a pottery studio?

Being part of a studio means being surrounded by creativity and community. I love seeing the imaginative ideas others bring to life, and I find great joy in exchanging thoughts, collaborating, and simply sharing the creative space. It cultivates a genuine sense of belonging and artistic camaraderie.

Happiness, health, luck, wealth...