Today we’d like to introduce you to Jillian Cooper.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started taking ceramics as an elective while I was a graduate student studying Metalsmithing and Jewelry at Texas Tech University. Eventually, ceramics became my secondary emphasis and all of my jewelry work was made of at least 50% ceramic material. I completed my MFA for Metalsmithing and Jewelry and then was able to go on and receive my MFA in Ceramics as well. After graduating in 2015, I got the job as Ceramics Lab Coordinator for Collin College in Plano, where I currently work and teach an evening ceramics class.
Has it been a smooth road?
For the most part, it has been a fairly smooth road, but it has been a long one. I think the biggest struggle for me was learning to embrace failure and not get discouraged. With ceramics, there is so much room for error and you really need to just learn to roll with it. You can’t be afraid to experiment, try, fail, learn, repeat.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I make handmade functional ceramics. I most enjoy making cups and mugs, because I feel like they are the most commonly used everyday ceramics. I often use lace, stitches and plaid patterning in my work. I’m most proud of being able to create small pieces of art that are able to be used every day. I pay close attention to the details and how the patterns work with the form and function of the piece. Everything is one of a kind, nothing is made in duplicate. There may be similar pieces, but no two are ever identical.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
From my experience so far, I think Plano and Dallas are a great place to make and sell art. It’s a very diverse area with a great appreciation for the arts. I work mostly from my home, so I’m really not too sure what is around with regards to art centers or craft guilds.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jilliancooper.com
- Email: jilliancooperart@gmail.com
- Instagram: toberninejilly
Image Credit:
Shima Neamati
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