5 questions with potter Lisa Jones of the Pigeon Toe Ceramics Etsy shop

Lisa Jones, Pigeon Toe Ceramics
Lisa Jones of Etsy's Pigeon Toe Ceramics shop

Where do you get your design inspiration? Are there any hints of the Western lifestyle in your aesthetic?
I’m a native Northwesterner so this lifestyle is at the heart of my designs. I like to think my work has a quiet beauty but also doesn’t take itself too seriously. My aesthetic has a minimalist core and the shapes and colors are influenced by the natural world and all its wonders.

Where does the magic happen? Describe your work space. 
Our studio is located in the heart of SE Industrial Portland. It’s a bit scrappy, but there’s great energy here and many other working artists and designers in the neighborhood. Our production studio is attached to a small storefront where we sell our work alongside 20 or so other designers I curate to go with our work. Shopping in our store is really fun because you can look through the windows at me and my team creating everything by hand on-site.

How did you learn your craft? Any advice for how aspiring artisans can get started? 
I took a class in ceramics as a kid but didn’t pick it back up again until after getting a BFA and working full-time in graphic design. I learned by doing and making mistakes. The key is to not be afraid to ask for help or advice–and practice, a LOT.

Describe your favorite or best piece. Did you sell it or keep it or gift it?
I own very little of my own work–once I design something and it becomes part of production I generally feel ready to move on. However, I did keep the Striped Planter + Wood Tripod Stand from the Spring 2011 collection after the photo shoot. I love its simplicity and the combination of materials. It’s so difficult to find good gardenware that is modern.

What’s your favorite Etsy shop, other than your own? 
There’s no way to pick just one! I love LauraLombardiJewelry, Forestbound, UpInTheAirSomeWhere, Skinny Laminx, Mudpuppy. I could go on and on.

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