Jessica Thompson-Lee, a ceramic artist and educator originally from Kansas City, Missouri, and now based in Brooklyn, New York, is changing the way we think about ceramics. Her work is an exploration of the dynamic relationship between form and function, with each piece inviting both a tactile and visual journey. Thompson-Lee’s creations don’t just sit on a shelf; they invite you to touch them, hold them, and explore their complex, biomorphic designs.

Designer: Jessica Thompson-Lee

Inspired by the organic beauty of coral reefs, cellular structures and the delicate networks of mycelium, her pieces are full of movement. The handles on her cups, for example, are not mere appendages; they stretch and splay like living extensions of the vessel itself, creating web-like patterns that challenge the notion of how a cup should be held. Each curve and twist invites you to find new, playful ways of interacting with the object, transforming the simple act of holding a cup into an engaging sensory experience.

As beautiful as these designs are, one might wonder about their ergonomics. How comfortable is it to actually put your fingers through these differently shaped holes, and how comfortable is the handle to hold? The intricate designs may be visually appealing, but could be challenging in practical use. The unconventional placement of the handles could make it difficult to get a secure grip, raising doubts about the balance between art and utility. The delicate structure, while visually impressive, could make one hesitant to use the mug for its intended purpose for fear of it breaking. But you’ll never know until you actually hold it in your hand, it might surprise you with its great comfort. Either way, the piece can definitely enhance your space with its charm.

The magic of Thompson-Lee’s work lies not only in the finished product, but also in the process of creating it. In her Brooklyn studio, she begins each piece with what she calls “sketching with clay,” an approach that is as spontaneous as it is deliberate. Using a squeeze bottle full of liquid clay, she lets her hands trace the design onto a plaster panel, letting herself be carried away by the unpredictable nature of the process. This element of surprise and fluidity gives her work a joyful spontaneity, making each piece as unique as the moment it was created.

Once the vessel takes shape on the potter’s wheel, Thompson-Lee begins the meticulous hand-crafting phase. Using a scalpel, she carves handles from thick slabs of clay, carefully refining the shape until it’s just right. After smoothing the edges with a damp sponge, the handle is attached to the cup, which then undergoes a first firing. But the journey doesn’t end there. After firing, layers of intricate patterns and bright glazes are added, transforming the piece into a vibrant, abstract work of art.

Thompson-Lee’s creative explorations are not limited to mugs and vases. She pushes into new realms with her biomorphic designs, including vessels, lamps and even small furniture. Committed to sustainability, she also experiments with recycled paper pulp as a medium. Her unique, tactile creations are available on Etsy, where each piece is an adventure waiting to be discovered.