IN PROCESS : ANNA SCHWARTZ

ANNA SCHWARTZ : YPSI CLAY HOUSE

Introducing In Process - a photography project that offers a behind-the-scenes look at artists and makers in the midst of creating. From painters and potters to chefs and writers, I’m spending time with people as they bring their work to life, capturing the movements and moments of focus that shape their craft. Along with the photos, I’ll be sharing a few interview questions to get to know each artist or maker a little more, along with links to their work. This project is about honoring the process as much as the finished piece - because what it takes to make something is just as compelling as the thing itself.

Anna in her light-filled studio in Ypsilanti, MI.

: How long have you been making pottery and what drew you to this particular art form?

I took my first pottery class on a whim in 2018. I hadn't thought of working with clay before then but the class was called Potting for Pleasure and Protest and I couldn't pass that up. The name was too good. And I was hooked instantly. 

: Is there a particular point in your process of creating that feels the most fulfilling and why?

These days I love trimming. I used to dread it but now I feel like it's the sweet spot where a piece is still mostly potential. When you're trimming you're not working with a total blank canvas so to speak but you still have so much room to shape the form into what it will ultimately become. Commiting to a glaze can still paralyze me, plus seeing ribbons of clay fly off the pot is so satisfying. 

: Do you have a favorite piece that you’ve made (so far!) or is there a piece by another artist that you love and aspire to create something similar? Why?

I don't think I've made my favorite piece yet but I absolutely adore the work of Magdalene Odundo. I find her work so embodied and powerful. She has a piece at the DIA that everyone should go see!

 : Are there any artists or teachers you are particularly inspired by at the moment?

At the moment I'm most inspired by the community of friends and makers I'm surrounded by. All of the incredible people I've gotten to meet since starting to share my work last year and all of the people in my life who keep showing up to make art cause they love what they do. The world always needs artists and makers!

:What is your current favorite podcast, music, or book?

I'm mostly listening to podcasts in the studio these days. I just finished Nobel - an 8 part series about a family run crematory in Georgia. Highly recommend!

:What are you currently looking forward to? Can be art related or not!

I'm looking forward to sitting outside and seeing people at markets this summer. Come find me and say hi!

:What is your highest hope for your art?

My highest hope for my art is to make pieces that bring joy to people's lives and daily rituals. Beyond that I hope to make pottery accessible to as many people as I can by opening a community clay space in Ypsi. Clay is such an empowering and rewarding medium and I think everyone who wants to should be able to try their hand at it.

You can find Anna and her work by clicking here:

And on instagram here:

If you know an artist or maker who would be a great fit for this project, please reach out and share their information - I’d love to connect!