Meet Artist Blake
Blake Zucker, age 31, began his artistic journey at age 5 years old, 3 years after being diagnosed with Autism. He did not have the words to express his inner self and boundless creativity, so he chose to communicate through art.
Blake’s self-expression grew through art making, and he developed an enduring passion for ceramic pottery. He began exhibiting his art at age 6. Blake’s artworks have been featured in galleries, museums and shops in Italy, Australia, New York City, California, Florida, Ann Arbor and Detroit.
Now a gallery represented artist, Blake Zucker exemplifies how creativity, persistence and compassion can break boundaries and expectations.
Blake has a continuous message with his work. An eco-friendly theme- Use pottery not plastic.
A statement from Blake…
I am a ceramic potter with Autism and Synesthesia, I feel colors as I work. My ideas are best expressed creatively through pottery. The responsive nature of clay fascinates me. It is malleable and forgiving, and thus pottery is naturally rich in metaphor and emotion. I love exploring techniques to reveal the earthy organic textures within the clay and glazes.
My work is entirely produced from my home studio. The alchemy of my creative process comes to completion in my gas reduction kiln, firing at 2,600 degrees with natural gas. It is the only kiln of its caliber in Metro Detroit.
During the pandemic, I built the gas reduction kiln with my mentor. I love working from home, as pottery requires several steps to create, and the inspiration to throw on the wheel can happen at any time!
It’s nice that I can fire on my own schedule and because it is my kiln, I know every aspect of how it works and can fill it with all my large pieces.
Artist Interview – Blake
In this exclusive interview, we get to know more about Blake, his unique in-home studio practice, and what he values in his artistic career. Blake works through extreme temperatures to form the perfect mold, experiencing Midwestern cold while creating ceramic pottery in a fiery kiln in his outdoor studio. No matter the conditions, he is determined to make functional art that you can enjoy. Let’s hear more about his process!
“What project are you currently working on?”
I have a commission at a local florist for orchid pots.
A portion of the proceeds go to CERF artists’ relief. I’ve had my vases in this shop for 8 years and enjoy the quality arrangements, scents, and vibrant colors. The owners have been very very good to work with. I have a sense of pride in being able to give back to CERF artists’ relief, they helped me in the past.
“What message are you conveying in your work?”
In my functional pieces I want people to consider pottery, not plastic. An eco-friendly choice.
“What do you want the Art Spread Supporters to take away from your work?”
Many artists have difficulty in getting their work seen or understood. I hope to give inspiration to my followers and collectors. The challenges I face as an artist with Autism and Synesthesia are sensory stimulation and processing. At times the physical world feels floaty.
My ceramics take a form of their own while my hands glide through clay, I use 10 different clays depending on which kiln method of firing. While glazing I have a movement and momentum that I can’t describe other than I feel it, the colors.
I enjoy functional ceramics, using the theme of “ Use Pottery. Not Plastic “
“How can our audience keep in touch with you?”
Follow me on Instagram for current updates on my work and upcoming events:
Instagram: Innovative Earth to Fire Studio
“How can we support you?”
I’m looking forward to participating in the Art Spread; ‘s exhibition in 2024. I love to travel and to guest speak-lecture, inspiring people with my ideas and work!
The Art Spread can help get my work out to a vast audience, promoting my ceramics and inspirational background.
Thank you for the opportunity!
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Your work speaks volumes! I appreciate the effort and patience you have to reach the goals you set for yourself. Blake your talents show in each creative piece and I look forward to seeing more in the future. Keep up your energy and pace
I’m so incredibly proud of you! xo
I’m so incredibly proud of you! xo
I enjoy learning more about Blake and his process. I think it’s so interesting that he has his own custom built kiln! That alone is quite a project – absolutely love what he is able to create with it! Gorgeous pottery!
Blake, what a joy to see your beautiful new artworks and studio showcased here! As a very lucky owner of some of your pottery, I can say that it truly makes a difference drinking coffee and tea from your mugs! Smiles with every sip 🙂
We are lucky to have him!
You are a true inspiration to so many of us artists, keep up your amazing work!!
Totally agree!