Meet Jumie Ra | Ceramic Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jumie Ra and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jumie, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
Working with clay continues to teach me patience and adaptability more than anything. It forces me to slow down, be present, and accept that some things are out of my control, like unexpected outcomes with firings or the world economy! As a business owner, I’ve learned to adapt, whether it’s shifting creative directions, preparing for several market deadlines, adjusting to commissioned projects or balancing the artistic side with the practical realities of running a business.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Jumie Ceramics is a curated collection of functional ceramic ware that blends abstract and textured surface designs with the graphic elements of typography. I’m drawn to the contrast between clean shapes and surfaces that invite touch, whether through embossed lettering or clay textures. My background in graphic design deeply informs my approach, especially in my use of hand-lettering to add narrative into my pieces. I see my ceramics as both functional and expressive – as objects meant to be lived with, held, and experienced in meaningful ways over time.

What sets Jumie Ceramics apart is the combination of intentional design and storytelling through texture and words. My pieces are more than just functional objects. They carry emotion and meaning. Whether it’s bringing nostalgic memories that brought me joy, words or phrases that uplift my spirits, aspects of my culture, or my long lived fear of losing my sight that sparked my fascination with braille and textural surfaces – each piece tells a story of me as the maker in hopes it connects with you as well.

I’m especially proud of how my work resonates with people on a personal level. Whether it’s a personalized piece made for a special someone or a beloved pet, a mug that becomes part of someone’s daily ritual, or a piece that invites quiet reflection, I love creating work that feels deeply intimate.

Right now, I’m most excited about expanding into larger-scale pieces and exploring more experimental surfaces and finishes. This new direction feels like a natural evolution, allowing me to push the boundaries of form and texture even further. As a business, it’s important for me to also offer work in different scale which also reflects a different price point to meet new potential clients and space.

My journey has been anything but easy, but it’s been deeply fulfilling. Ceramics is a craft that demands patience, resilience, and a willingness to grow through challenges. What began as a serious hobby quickly evolved into a business, thanks to the incredible support of Marianne Rohrlich, an editor at The New York Times. Almost overnight, I found myself navigating the world of ceramics as both an artist and a business owner while juggling multiple full-time jobs at that time while managing an intense production schedule and moving into a new studio. The learning curve was steep, but every challenge taught me something essential.

Over the years, certain things have become more manageable, but like anything in life, new obstacles continue to arise. This year alone has been especially tough for small businesses as we face rising tariffs, economic shifts, and ongoing recovery from the LA fires. Despite it all, I’m learning to adapt by finding alternative suppliers, reworking parts of my business model, and leaning on my creative community and customers for support. Thank you to everyone who continues to show up for small businesses. Your support makes all the difference.

One of the most valuable lessons I continue to learn on this journey is that success isn’t about perfection, it’s about adaptability. Working with clay has taught me to embrace imperfection and release control, a lesson that extends far beyond the studio into life and business.

Lately, I’ve been asking myself a crucial question: ‘Is the current direction of my business allowing me to live the life I want?’ As I navigate changes in my business and new desires for the life I envision, this question has become a source of guidance. If the answer is no, it’s a signal to make small, intentional pivots to realign with my vision.

Through it all, one thing that continues to amaze me is the power of community. The support from fellow artists, founders, mentors, and customers has shown me that creativity thrives in connection. This realization has inspired me to move in the direction of creating workshops, classes, and collaborations with other small businesses to build shared spaces for creativity.

Jumie Ceramics is more than just pottery. It’s about connection, storytelling, and creating objects that is memorable. I want my pieces to feel grounding, to carry a sense of presence, care and some humor. Whether it’s a quiet reminder to slow down or a favorite mug that becomes part of someone’s daily routine, my work is meant to be used and enjoyed in your everyday moments.

As a queer artist, ceramics is also a way for me to claim space and share a perspective that feels inviting and inclusive. My brand reflects who I am – thoughtful, textural, and always evolving. Every piece is shaped with both intention and imperfection, much like life itself.

At its core, my work is about creating objects that encourage dialogue, calming pleasures and a moment of stillness for others as much as for myself.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Los Angeles is more than just home. It’s where my dreams have taken root and a constant source of inspiration. As a Bay Area native who’s lived in Los Angeles for over 20 years, I still find myself discovering new parts of this city.

Museum trips like the Broad is a nice start. There’s also the occasional popup museums like my recent favorite – the Balloon Museum in the Arts District, a must-see experience. Each space invites movement, interaction, and creativity, all centered around the theme “Let’s Fly – Art Has No Limits.” The Perpetual Ballet was pure magic – an immersive space filled with white balloons of varying sizes swirling around you. It felt like joyful chaos and complete serenity all at once. I need a room like that to decompress in every day!

Beyond the many places to explore art in Los Angeles, the Hollywood Farmers’ Market is a perfect way to start your Sunday morning while supporting small businesses in produce, flowers, seafood and other artisans. Selma Avenue and Cosmo Street is a small street within the farmers’ market that is dedicated to featured rotating food vendors highlighting a specific category for a 3 month period and local artisans offering ceramics, jewelry, art and home goods. From April to June, they will be highlighting and celebrating queer-owned food vendors as a thoughtful way to showcase diverse voices within the Farmers’ Market space.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My deepest gratitude goes to my incredible mentor, Alison Taylor, and the amazing team at LACI. Your invaluable guidance and support during my lowest moment have truly changed my life in unbelievable ways. My continued gratitude goes to Beverly Morrison as she continues to be a supportive friend, mentor and inspiring sculpture. Thank you for your countless saves and encouragements. I also wouldn’t be here without the continued love from my family, friends, my incredible studio mate Ming Wang, Vy Tran, fellow small business owners, and the loyal customers who have stood by me throughout this journey. Thank you for being part of it all.

Website: https://jumieceramics.com

Instagram: @jumieceramics

Image Credits
@CostelloCaptures
@jumieceramics