Jessica Thompson Lee, a ceramist and educator originally from Kansas City, Missouri and now based in Brooklyn, New York, is changing the way we think about ceramics. Her work explores the dynamic relationship between form and function, and each piece invites a journey that is as tactile as it is visual. Thompson Lee's pieces don't just sit on a shelf, they invite you to touch them, pick them up, and explore their intricate biomorphic designs.
Designer: Jessica Thompson Lee
Inspired by the organic beauty of coral reefs, their cellular structures and the delicate networks of mycelium, her pieces are full of movement. The handles of her mugs, for example, are not merely appendages but stretch and unfold like living extensions of the vessel itself, creating web-like patterns that challenge the very notion of how to hold a mug. Each curve and twist invites you to find new and playful ways to interact with the object, transforming the simple act of holding a mug into a fascinating sensory experience.
However, as beautiful as these designs are, some may wonder how ergonomic they are. How comfortable would it actually be to put your fingers into the various shaped holes? And what kind of grip would you get? Intricate designs may be visually appealing, but they can pose practical challenges. Unconventional handle placements can be difficult to get a firm grip on, raising concerns about the balance between art and practicality. Delicate constructions may look impressive, but you may hesitate to use them for their intended purpose for fear of breaking them. But you won't know until you hold them in your hands, and you may be surprised by how comfortable they are. Either way, their appeal will undoubtedly add value to your space.
The appeal of Thompson Lee's work lies not only in the finished product, but also in the process. In her Brooklyn studio, she begins each piece with a “clay sketch,” an approach that is both planned and spontaneous. Using a squeeze bottle of liquid clay, she traces her designs onto plaster slabs, embracing the unpredictability of the process. This element of surprise and fluidity imbues her pieces with a joyous spontaneity, making each piece as unique as the moment of its creation.
Once the potter's wheel has shaped it, Thompson Lee moves on to the meticulous handcrafting stage. She uses an Exacto knife to carve a handle out of a thick slab of clay, carefully shaping it until the shape is just right. After smoothing the edges with a damp sponge, the handle is attached to the mug and it's ready for the first firing. But the work doesn't stop there: after firing, intricate patterns and vibrant layers of glaze are added, transforming the piece into a vibrant, abstract work of art.
Thompson Lee's creative endeavors go beyond mugs and vases. She's pushing biomorphic design into new territory, planning jars, lamps, and even small pieces of furniture. Committed to sustainability, she's also experimenting with recycled paper pulp as a material. Her unique, tactile pieces are sold on Etsy, with each piece offering an adventure waiting to be discovered.
