The Red Ox Clay Studio
Introduction
Over the past 12 months, my life has been incredibly challenging. Throughout this time, the community at Red Ox Clay Studio, including its incredible potters and staff, has been a cornerstone of my physical and mental well-being. This post is a tribute to them and a celebration of the importance of community, especially during tough times.
I’ve touched on this topic in earlier posts, but today, I want to dive deeper into what makes this group so special. Beyond celebrating their talents, I’m excited to share some of the incredible work created in this hidden East Bay gem. Over the past year, I’ve taken the time to connect with most of the members and students, and now, I’m finally ready to highlight their artistry. For someone like me, who struggles to remember names, Instagram** has become a handy tool for putting faces to names and seeing everyone’s finished work. While I’m not naturally inclined to participate in social media, it’s been the best way to appreciate and spread the word about these amazing artists.
** 1/17/25 Update: I am no longer supporting Meta products since the recent news. Sadly this was my main way of following artists so, going forward I will share their personal websites and posting on my calendar when artists are having shows or events.
The Beginning
A year ago, I was laid off (again!). At the time, Heather had already been deeply immersed in pottery since August 2023 and encouraged me to give it a try. Reluctantly, I joined. Honestly, I was nervous about stepping out, meeting new people, and being out of the house in general. But I signed up for a class led by I-Fang Chung, and it turned out to be an 8-month journey that profoundly impacted me.
Words fail to capture I-Fang’s talent—you’ll have to see her work for yourself. A former NYC-based fashion designer, she brings an incredible design process and creative vision to her pottery. She’s meticulous and methodical, encouraging us to sketch out designs before starting any project. Her precision is evident in every finished piece. If you ever have the chance, I highly recommend seeing her work in person. Trust me, pottery is always better appreciated up close.
Golden Retriever Mode Unlocked
Once I joined the studio, I was all in. Unemployed and highly motivated, I practically lived there. Naturally, people started asking, “Who’s this guy who’s always here and can’t stop talking?” (My wife probably appreciated having others to absorb my chatter!)
One of my first friends at the studio was Doug Whipple, a retired principal and an exceptional potter. Though he doesn’t sell his work, his talent is undeniable. Beyond pottery, Doug is always up for a thoughtful conversation about hiking, philosophy, or just about anything interesting. He’s one of the kindest people I’ve met and a true friend—something I hadn’t realized I needed until I found it. Doug also has a book coming out, which I’ve linked below if you’re interested.
Another key figure in my journey has been the studio’s owner, Roger Yee. Roger’s mastery of ceramics is something you have to see to believe. Watching him work on the wheel is like witnessing magic—he moves clay effortlessly, as if it’s an extension of himself. Beyond his incredible skill, Roger is endlessly generous with his time. Whether it’s offering advice or providing detailed insights on pottery techniques, he’s like a walking encyclopedia. He runs a phenomenal studio that’s not only clean and safe but also welcoming and respectful. It’s no wonder Red Ox has become my second home.
2025 and Beyond
So, what’s the takeaway from all this? It’s simple: find a community where you feel safe and connected in person. As a remote worker, I didn’t realize how unhealthy I was becoming, spending most of my time at home on Zoom calls. It’s crucial to get out, engage with others face-to-face, and form meaningful connections. Put down your phone, take out your earbuds, and say hello to someone new. It might just make a world of difference.
I’ve learned that I’m an ambivert—I thrive on social interaction but only in the right circumstances with the right people. Finding this balance has been life-changing. Whether it’s a pottery studio, a running club, or another activity, make it a priority to socialize regularly. It doesn’t have to be big or time-consuming, just consistent.
As promised, I’ll be sharing a full list of the talented potters at Red Ox Clay Studio soon. In the meantime, check out the artists linked below. If you’re in the market for ceramics, these makers are worth exploring. Keep an eye on my Instagram for updates!
The Studio
Red Ox Clay Studio
Instagram | Website
Featured Artists
I-Fang Chung
Instagram | Etsy Shop
Lisa Graham Lee
Instagram | Website
Crockett Pottery
Instagram | Website
Lynne Meade
Instagram | Website
Sarah Brown Ceramics
Instagram | Website
Prickly Club
Instagram
Mountain Toes Ceramics
Instagram | Etsy
Curvy Clayworks
Instagram | Website
Claysparrow Studios
Instagram | Website
Jot Pottery
Instagram | Website
Anu Gandhi Ceramics
Instagram | Website
Dao Ceramics
Instagram | Website
Rhame Ceramics
Instagram
Living Ware Ceramics
Instagram
Tdl Pottery
Instagram | Website
Heather Ihn Ceramics
Instagram | Website
Roger Yee Ceramics
Instagram
Eric Throws
Instagram
Sarah Groman Ceramics
Instagram
Wendy Friedman
Instagram
Kurt Heffron
Instagram
Hojicha & T
Instagram
Paula Santi
Instagram
Doug Whipple
Instagram
