We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Michelle Shanahan a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Michelle, thanks for joining us today. One of the toughest things about progressing in your creative career is that there are almost always unexpected problems that come up – problems that you often can’t read about in advance, can’t prepare for, etc. Have you had such and experience and if so, can you tell us the story of one of those unexpected problems you’ve encountered?

Working in ceramics is quite humbling because many things can go wrong at every stage of the process. Until a certain point, the clay can be recycled if the project fails. When it cracks on the fourth and final firing, theres nothing to do but take a deep breath and start over from the beginning.
Losing a piece in the final stages after weeks of work is an awful feeling, but can also be enlightening. In order to better my odds of success, I have developed an attitude to “always be testing.” At the start of each studio session I give myself 30 minutes to an hour to make experimental work. This allows me to troubleshoot, play with new ideas, test finishes and gets me into the right mental space to make stronger artwork. Since adopting this practice, I have been able to refine my craft and gain a deeper understanding of how to work with the medium.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I was first introduced to ceramics in high school and was immediately enamored. I went on to earn my B.F.A. in Ceramics from Buffalo State in 2012. After a several year hiatus, I returned to sculpting in 2020 and have been exhibiting work nationally for the last two years.
I have been exploring the concept of creating snapshots in time, peaceful or silly moments that are condensed into a singular form. An animal enjoying a peaceful moment in the sun, wind blowing through fur, lip stuck on their tooth, painted in vibrant colors reminiscent of the scenery I imagine them in. I aim to create work that is playful and whimsical, reminiscent of fond memories spent exploring nature.

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

We need to allow ourselves and each other room to play. Fostering an environment where people can have fun and feel the excitement of learning a new skill peaks our curiosity and opens us up to new ideas and experiences. Through creative endeavors, I have been able to collaborate with people of all different backgrounds. Working with athletes who taught me how to move and lift safely. Chefs who taught me how to produce a high yield of work efficiently.
If society as a whole could embrace a creative and supportive mindset, there’s no telling what kind of problems we could solve together.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Being an artist is a lifestyle, not necessarily a career. Learn widely and seek skills that will help fulfill you on your journey. See the opportunities available to you. I spent many years working in various jobs outside of my field of study, but never stopped learning. I feel confident that whatever the future holds, I will pursue life with a need to create beautiful things and look forward to new skills I will learn along the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://electricfaunaclay.com
• Instagram: @michelleshanahanceramics