Artisan Stories is a focus on those who create with their hands, forming an alchemical process of transforming raw materials into functional objects. It is a deeper lens into the spiritual aspects of the maker’s life and how their discipline brings healing and transcendence to their way of being.

This month we wanted to share space with Jasmine Rose, a multidisciplinary creative being who shortly after becoming a mother felt a strong pull towards the practice of pottery.

*Mother, Ceramic Artist, Photographer & Community Facilitator Jasmine Rose*

Who are you and where are you from?

I’m Jasmine Rose, my mama is from Trinidad and my father is from the States . I also grew up in the States, to truly contextualize my experience as a black american I always find it crucial to include the identities of my parents.

“I was seeking a practice to help me reorient myself to my new body and what felt like, new spirit.”

Can you tell us a bit about your practice?

Earthenware is an ancient practice of molding and ventrifying clay into various shapes or vessels. Traditionally, pieces were created for everyday uses like transporting water, cooking and storing food. There’s a rich history of use within spiritual ceremonies too. Ceramics as a whole is one of, if not thee, oldest and first functional artisanal practice. That says alot about its ability to draw us back to the earth and our people.

“There was a resurgence of a deep yet subtle and persistent desire to work with my hands. It lived within me for as long as I can recall.”

How were you drawn to this kind of work?

Shortly after having my sun I began seeing a therapist; amidst those sessions, there was a resurgence of a deep yet subtle and persistent desire to work with my hands. It lived within me for as long as I can recall. A low hymn that pulled me to the soil, combining water and earth to make my own mish-mashed shapes. It spoke to me again when the little infant arrived earthside - I was seeking a practice to help me reorient myself to my new body and what felt like, new spirit.

What does artisanship mean to you?

A practice that bridges us to our spirit, to the grander element of ourselves that extends beyond the body. It’s also the tool that helps us transcribe the experience of crossing the bridge, it makes it tangible.

“I learned and am still learning to allow myself to move fluidly between feelings of elation and disappointment. Rather than resisting.”

Why is it important for you to create?

It helps me to feel at peace; I’ve felt my sense of equanimity deepen through consistent practice. I learned and am still learning to allow myself to move fluidly between feelings of elation and disappointment. Rather than resisting I am reminded to become a witness and to remain present. The moment you begin thinking about anything other than the clay spinning across from you is the moment your hand strays and unintentionally misshapes the piece. I can appreciate the mishap and save the piece or scrap it. Either way, all I can do is begin again with what’s in front of me.

What are some of your self-care rituals for days you don’t feel in the flow?

When I feel out of it I generally allow myself to gravitate to what is pulling me. That’s tended to manifest as deep dives into the regional significance of vessels shapes and functions, purely aesthetical vision board building, sketching or something not ceramic related at all. I’ve recognized a pattern between my moon cycle and my levels of creativity - I’m doing my best to respect my body’s / spirit’s natural cycles.

Who are some of your favorite artists to listen to and why?

Oh, this is tough! Truly is mood dependent :)

Some timeless go-tos are Roy Ayers, Jazmin Lacey, Weldon Irvine, Letta Mbulu, Alice Coltrane, India Arie, Matthew Halsall and HNNY - they’re a recent favorite. The combination of their sounds is just enough funk, spiritual jazz and it helps me get into the perfect headspace.

Anything you would like to share with our readers?

Accidents are what you make of them, it’s never too early nor too late to begin (again).

To connect with Jasmine further follow her @ro_jsmn

In Conversation With Ceramic Artist & Photographer Jasmine Rose

In Conversation With Multidisciplinary Artist and Founder of IÉFO Keren Lasme.

In Conversation With Krystle Amoo Founder of The Bibio Project.