EAST Interview: Zoe Comings Needs 48 Hour Days

Most ceramic materials are brittle, hard and full of tiny little holes, not unlike our cold, cold hearts (just kidding). The challenge of working in ceramics is to overcome these faults and make something that can stand the test of time. Zoe Comings aims for that goal and exceeds it by not only creating lasting structures, but also lasting beauty. Experience some of her work this weekend during the East Austin Studio Tour. Zoe's studio is part of the Pump Project, which is located at 702 Shady Lane, #60 on the E.A.S.T. map.

First off, could you tell us a little bit about your artistic beginnings? What first got you interested in working in ceramics and specifically table and tile objects?

I was raised by two artists, so I was surrounded by art supplies and a creative environment from a very young age. I have always enjoyed working with small objects, studied jewelry in college, and later ceramics. Working in clay I still tend to work with small objects, that sometimes create a large atmosphere if a tile piece, or a small presence on the table.

What is the most challenging thing about creating a tile piece? The conception or the execution?

The execution absolutely (if only I had 48 hours in a day and no day job). It will happen!

What has been the biggest learning experience for you in working with this specific medium?

The art of letting go. Literally. After spending hours creating and executing that conception into reality, just before it is there, you have to put it in the kiln, let go, and see what happens. Hopefully, and usually, but NOT always (bugger), the pieces come out.

We noticed that one of your inspirations is teeth, which we also find rather fascinating. What brought that about?

Teeth. I'm not sure if it's the hours that I spent in the dentist's chair as a child..., or perhaps my appreciation of nature and the passage of time; sedimentary layers and fossils, but either way it has been a recurring theme.