Juliann Roush

“My aim is to elevate everyday objects, to make the ordinary just a little more extraordinary.” - Juliann Roush

I created my first mug the summer before kindergarten and the rest, as they say, is history. In the years following, I have honed my craft through education and practice. Currently, I am a functional potter, living and working in Indian River, Michigan, creating both thrown and hand-built stoneware pieces. I attended Eastern Michigan University, where I received my undergraduate degree in Business with an emphasis in International Marketing and Japanese. While completing my degree, I participated in two life-changing work-study programs in Japan. Also, during my time in college, I began studying ceramics and discovered my passion. After graduating, I continued honing my skills, studying ceramics at City College San Francisco. It was there where I learned a great deal of studio practices as a lab tech.

My art manifests in colorful, whimsical pottery by using vibrant glazes in crazy color combinations. I carve into the leather hard clay and make my own stamps by hand. I add small, intricate raised buttons with leaf and flower details for interest and texture. I adore the juxtaposition of bright shiny colors, playing along with soft buttery satin matte glazes while showcasing the beauty of the raw clay body.

I am fascinated by and draw much of my imagery and inspiration from historical theater architecture, gypsy caravans, turn-of-the-century carnivals, amusement rides and circuses. I am also influenced by fabrics and notions - my work incorporates ceramic buttons, snaps, stitching, and appliqués and high temperature wire.

I have had the opportunity to study with some fantastic ceramic artists throughout the years, including Peter King, Donna Billick, and Yoshiro Ikeda. My work has been published in a book by Angie Mausolf titled Here and Now: Emerging Artists in Michigan.