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

Hi Mike, what role has risk played in your life or career?

Risk is an interesting concept as it relates to both a career choice and the work/ art itself.

Regarding “career choice”, I’ve found that there is an inherent risk to whatever path you choose. I decided to pursue a more artistic/ entrepreneurial path, which most would certainly deem “risky”. But I’ve seen those that have taken a “safer” route (corporate job, salary, 401k etc) have the proverbial rug pulled out from under them, thus negating the precept that risk should even be considered when deciding how one should make a living.  Do what you love.

Regarding the work (in my case ceramics), again the concept of risk doesn’t resonate. There is only inspiration, curiosity and the attempt to execute that which motivates my approach. If I neglect these impulses, I would stunt my growth as an artist and it will show in the work I produce. To the observer, it may seem like a risk was taken, but to me, I’m simply remaining mindful of what drives me and putting it forth.


Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

A good friend who has is MA in ceramics began throwing at a studio in Venice where I was living at the time. He invited me down to hang out with him while he worked. After a week of watching, observing closely and asking questions I decided to get my hands in it. For most of my life I’ve enjoyed a challenge, the pursuit of becoming proficient at something. Some activities more than others. Ceramics definitely took me deep down the rabbit hole, I became hooked immediately. For most of my life I’ve worked in the service of others, it felt good to have a creative outlet that was in service to me.

I think what sets me apart from most ceramicists is that I am essentially self taught. Although the bulk of my hours spent refining my techniques/ approach, which are unconventional and somewhat unique from what I’m told, were spent alone, I’ve definitely had the guidance and encouragement of incredible artists, including the aforementioned friend, Daniel George who introduced me to the craft, as well as Mark Churchill, Cory Bluemling and P.Lyn.

With ceramics I find there to be two types of challenges: resources and creative. In terms of resources, access to space, equipment, materials, kilns etc, and the time to monitor your work (the pace of drying is critical) which are all quite costly and the timing can tie you to the process in ways that aren’t always convenient. Given that I recently moved back to LA and own two kilns (gas and electric) I find myself in the predicament of finding them a home. Finding industrial space that will house a gas and an electric kiln is a hurdle.

Creatively speaking, I struggle to find the balance between producing volume, typically functional wares (plates, bowls, mugs etc) which there tends to be a greater demand for, and a more artistic/ sculptural/ wabi-sabi approach, The repetitive nature of the former served as a great way to hone the foundational skills I think ceramicists should have. That said, I find myself drawn more towards the latter as it pushes me creatively in ways that are much more fulfilling.

The greatest lesson I’ve learned through ceramics is to let go. It’s not to say that striving to consistently throw balanced work is a bad thing, but that essential to the process is letting go of mistakes/ failed attempts and to just keep moving forward and continue to push my work creatively. I often got frustrated in the beginning, soon realizing that i would quickly diminish the passion I felt for the craft if I sustained that approach/ frame of mind. A not so subtle and welcome metaphor for life in general.


Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

This is a tough one as LA is like a living organism that is constantly changing with new food, entertainment, activities etc popping up seemingly on a monthly basis. That said these are some of my staples…

Food:
Gjusta
MTN
Bavel
Little Dom’s
Night & Market
Pine & Crane
Taco Zone
Grand Central Market

Drink:
Mandrake
The Dresden
The Short Stop

Places:
The Broad
LACMA
Griffith Park/ Observatory (hike)
Arts District Downtown
Bike around Venice

Live Events/ Shows:
Greek Theatre
Disney Concert Hall
The Troubadour
Hollywood Bowl

Shopping:
New High Mart

Merchant Modern
Tortoise General Store
Counter Space
Grain
Dekor


Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

My mom. She has been the one to encourage my artistic pursuits the most throughout my life. Going to college (Moore College of Art & Design) to get her degree while raising three boys was quite the feat. I remember doing my homework on her drafting table and going to museums, galleries, exhibitions and the like on a regular basis. There is no doubt she planted the seed. She continues to inspire me still.

Instagram: @soensceramics

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