Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Meg Howton. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Meg, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

Over the past decade, I have been studying and creating ceramic sculpture. Influential mentors and experiences have shaped my artistic journey. At the University of Alabama, where I received my Bachelor of Fine Arts, I learned from instructors with contrasting approaches—one emphasizing meticulous detail, the other encouraging rule-breaking. This dual influence shaped my approach, blending precision with creativity. In graduate school at Southern Illinois University, a professor helped me define my work and create a visual language for myself. This blend of influences has deeply influenced my work, shaping me into an artist who values innovation and technique. I’ve found that artistic growth is accelerated by studying with mentors who believe in your potential, pushing yourself as much as possible, and surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals. These experiences have taught me the value of experimentation and the importance of defining the parameters of my work, ultimately leading to a more refined and meaningful artistic practice.

While the artistic process cannot be hurried, clarity can be achieved through intentional actions, such as composing a manifesto. I discovered that articulating a set of guidelines for the work brought newfound clarity to my artistic practice. This process highlights the importance of reflection and intentionality in fostering artistic growth and understanding. Art takes time, and the work isn’t going to transform overnight. It takes a lot of work, but if you can be mindful during these steps, then you can learn so much from every part of the process.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am a working artist as well as an educator. I am a full-time Ceramics and 3d Design instructor at The University of Alabama. I am a sculptor who primarily works with ceramics. As an artist, my primary focus is on creating abstract sculpture that aims to evoke a sense of wonder in the viewer. Working mostly on a small scale, I use sculpture to explore and express ideas in a tangible, three-dimensional form. Each piece is crafted with the intention of inviting contemplation and sparking curiosity, encouraging viewers to see the familiar in a new light. In addition to my sculptural practice, I also create functional ceramic work, blending artistry with utility. This dual approach allows me to engage with different aspects of creativity while sharing my passion for art with others. As a full-time instructor at the University of Alabama, I also strive to inspire and educate the next generation of artists, fostering a deep appreciation for the arts in my students.

My journey into ceramics began with a series of pivotal moments that ultimately led me to discover my passion for the art form. Initially pursuing a business major in undergrad, I soon realized it wasn’t the right fit for me and explored other academic paths. During this exploration, I took a drawing class, which opened my eyes to the world of visual arts. One day, while admiring a pot made by a friend in ceramics, I learned that it was part of a class and felt an immediate pull to try it myself. As I immersed myself in ceramics, I found joy in the process of creating and the tactile nature of working with clay. During my final critique, a teacher, who was a grad student at the time, recognized my potential and encouraged me to pursue ceramics further. After about three semesters of exploring and honing my skills, I knew that art was the right direction for me to go in.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Breaking down the perception of exclusivity in the art world can indeed be a shared responsibility. Artists play a crucial role in making art more accessible and inviting for a wider audience. By creating a welcoming environment in spaces where art is displayed and actively engaging with diverse communities, artists can help demystify the art world and make it more inclusive. This approach not only benefits artists by expanding their audience but also enriches society by fostering a deeper appreciation for art and creativity among people from all backgrounds. The more we include a wider audience, the more potential buyers there will be, which can be beneficial for artists and the art market as a whole. It’s about creating a more inviting and inclusive space for everyone to appreciate and participate in the arts and enriching communities.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the creative process itself. I find great joy in exploring my imagination and seeing where it leads, often surprising myself with the ideas and concepts that emerge. I particularly enjoy seeking out items with intriguing textures and colors, as they serve as the building blocks for my compositions. By pairing these elements together in unique and harmonious ways, I aim to create artwork that not only captivates the eye but also sparks a sense of curiosity and wonder in the viewer. This process of discovery and creation is incredibly fulfilling, as it allows me to connect with others and share my creative vision in a meaningful way.

Contact Info:

• Website: meghowton.net
• Instagram: @heg_mowton