Although we consider ourselves to be craftier than most, ceramics is just one of those mediums we've never mastered. Even with a few classes under our belts, we never got the hang of turning a lump of clay spinning on a fast moving wheel into something beautiful using only our hands. It can, however, be done, and Ryan McKerley's body of work proves it. Using a vast repertoire of techniques including wax resist, water carving, and salt and soda glazing, McKerley's work stands out from the typical cups and bowls seen extensively at craft fairs. McKerley is also a prolific teacher, leading workshops for adults and teaching his art through schools around town. We got a chance to chat with Ryan about his work and what he's got planned for this weekend's East Austin Studio Tour. Stop by his studio at 2710 E. Cesar Chavez to see check out his work and process. more ›

Like a lot of people in Austin, artist Stephanie Nance has a great affinity for the airstream trailer. These vintage 1960s wagons have been the subject of several of her paintings, prints, and postcards, and she even fashioned a studio out of one for a while. Part of her beloved "Americana" series, Nance's airstreams are sprightly, whimsical, colorful, and based on her representations, would be totally believable as the main character in a animated film. Still dear to heart, Nance has moved on from airstreams for now (she sold hers last year) and has returned to the East Austin Studio this year with a new collection of paintings that feature a myriad of botanicals, including cacti and flowers native to this region, and a few bird varieties. The same wonderful illustrative quality is here as with her previous work -- a steady line mixed with bright colors and patterns. more ›

Blue Bowl by Ryan MckerleyRyan McKerley with Lisa Crowder and Edmund Martinez (2710 E Cesar Chavez) A full-time studio potter since 1995, Ryan McKerley has been a fixture of the East Side Studio Tour since its inception. He makes contemporary functional stoneware and porcelain vessels, fired in a wood or soda kiln and decorated with earthy colors. Ryan really loves what he does, and it shows from his work. You won’t get a warmer welcome... more ›

This weekend, you can ogle mass-produced spare modernism at IKEA, or head to East Austin Studio Tour (E.A.S.T.), enter a quasi-Malkovichian portal, and swim for hours in homespun creative juju. A choice so easy it might be called cake. Now, while E.A.S.T. does stop short of offering the mindblowing total body-exchange experience for which we all yearn, don't fault it too much -- it edges close. The tour provides intimate access (yup, that's rock... more ›