My name is Cruz I am a 22 year old potter studying Art Education at Utah Valley University. I had my first experience with clay when I was 6 or 7 years old at a neighbors house.
I didn't really take an interest till my senior year of high school where ceramic became my passion. My teachers in highschool help me to enter into local art shows and other events to promote my work and build my portfolio.
I think my favorite aspect of pottery is the firing something about the warmth of the kiln continues to draws me in. In my free time I enjoy gardening, hiking, exploring the outdoors, and working in the studio. This last January I had the opportunity to start setting up my home studio and I’ve been building ever since. I don’t want to forget about my dog I have a beautiful German shepherd named Molly who loves to hang out around the studio and keep me safe.
This is my sophomore year at UVU and i'm loving it so far. I’m working toward a degree in Art Education. For me, ceramics is more than just a personal practice—it's something I feel the need to share with others. There's a special kind of joy that comes from working with clay, and I believe that sharing that knowledge can inspire others to find the same fulfillment. Teaching ceramics allows me to pass on that excitement and creativity, helping people discover the satisfaction of making something with their hands and connecting to the process in a meaningful way.
Personal Statement
Firing pots is a meditative process for me, where I find peace in the warmth of the kiln and carefully mixing glazes that bring the clay alive. Each step is mindful and planned enriching my work with a sense of self. Sharing this process through teaching lets me pass on that same joy to the community, helping others discover their own connection to art through creation.