We recently connected with Allison Neiss and have shared our conversation below.
Allison, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?
I keep my creativity alive by constantly seeking out sources of inspiration, whether it’s from other potters, galleries, or everyday experiences. For example, while on a cruise ship, I once saw a stunning piece of artwork that sparked an idea for a new design. Similarly, during a stay at a hotel, I came across a canvas that incorporated pottery in such a unique way that it completely shifted my perspective. These moments remind me to stay curious and open to new ideas, no matter where I am. I love taking what I see and reimagining it through my own work, giving it a personal twist. It’s this ongoing process of discovery and adaptation that keeps my creativity fresh and exciting.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m a ceramic artist creating pottery for luxury home décor and kitchenware, with a signature organic flutter style that sets my work apart. I love experimenting with glaze combinations to keep my pieces fresh and in tune with current trends. This past year, I started exploring sculptures, which has pushed me to grow as an artist and expand my creative boundaries. I also launched my website, allowing me to reach beyond social media and connect with more people who appreciate my work. In the future, I hope to showcase my pieces in galleries and continue supporting charities that are close to my heart.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
The three qualities that had the biggest impact on my journey is not being afraid to try new things, continuously pushing myself, and keeping the process fun. Early on, I wasn’t afraid to experiment—whether it was hand building, working on the wheel, or spending hours researching glaze techniques online. Being part of a studio also played a huge role; it was inspiring to see what others in the class were making, and it reminded me to keep things light and enjoyable. I’ve always focused on growth, mastering one skill and then moving on to the next. For example, developing the fluttery look in my pottery took a lot of practice and patience to perfect. Most importantly, staying engaged and working on exciting projects keeps me motivated and ensures the spark never fades.
My advice for anyone just starting out is to join a local pottery studio with an open mind and a positive attitude. Be willing to try new techniques, learn from others, and accept feedback—it’s all part of the process. Patience is key, too; pottery isn’t something you can rush. It takes time, and the best pieces are often the result of waiting for the right moment in the process. Most of all, focus on enjoying the journey. When you keep it fun and exciting, you’re more likely to stay inspired and keep growing.
Alright, so before we go we want to ask you to take a moment to reflect and share what you think you would do if you somehow knew you only had a decade of life left?
One of my current challenges was starting my home studio and figuring out the best layout and organization for my pottery making, glazing, and bisque firing. It’s been a learning process to create a space that’s both functional and inspiring. Balancing the creative flow with the need for efficiency has pushed me to rethink how I arrange and use my tools and equipment. I’m still fine-tuning things, but each adjustment makes a noticeable difference in how smoothly my work progresses. Staying organized has become essential for managing my time and maintaining focus as I grow my business.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.allisonneisspottery.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ALLISON_NEISSPOTTERY/#
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@allison.neiss.pot
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