Today we’d like to introduce you to Alex Macias.
Alex, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I started doing ceramics at the age of 5, in kindergarten. As a beginning potter, my focus was usually on sculptural pieces and slab built platters, using methods such as coil-building or adding texture to rolled out clay. Approximately five years ago I switched my focus to the pottery wheel, and have enjoyed adding different textures and decorative elements to my thrown vessels.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
My skill level on the pottery wheel has improved significantly since I first started. As a beginner, I struggled to make even the basic cylindrical form from which most vessels and shapes stem from. To me, learning how to throw, and practicing was quite the obstacle. I wanted perfectly uniform pieces with smooth, even walls, but could only achieve a small bowl. However, through persistence and practice, I was able to make larger forms with more refined shapes. Now I work towards transforming the thrown vessels to add elements of design, incorporating carving, geometric patterns, and texture into my pieces.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about All Fired Up – what should we know?
All Fired Up is the business that I started when I was 14. It first started as a Facebook Page, but I have since grown into creating my own website and working towards setting up a more prominent online presence. The pieces that I create are crafted with mostly porcelain and porcelain-hybrid clays. They are functional, and kitchen safe. Although my pieces are for functional use, I like to add elements of creativity and art in my added textures, carvings. To me, the biggest compliment is when people use my art, I like to know that my coffee cup, or bowl is being enjoyed as something utilitarian and artistic.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Throughout my journey, I have had many mentors and supporters. My beginnings would not be possible at all in any art if it hadn’t if been for the McKinney Art House, where I spent my summers in pottery classes and art camps learning and being encouraged to create and understand concepts in art. I have also been supported by my teachers like Sona Knox, Lisa LaBarge, and Bridget Hauser, who have worked with me pushing me to grow bigger and challenge myself with my medium. In addition to the people who have been behind me, my studio space, SPARC (St. Peter’s Artist Run Co-op) is one of the main reasons why I have been able to create my pieces, and have space for the equipment, clay, and tools that I use. SPARC has also provided a great sense of community as it houses an additional 5 other potters.
Contact Info:
- Address: Studio Space: 405 N Sherman St
McKinney, Texas 75069 - Website: https://alexmacias7186.wixsite.com/alexmaciasceramics
- Email: alexmacias7186@gmail.com
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/alexmaciasceramics
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