Jaclyn Souza, Owner Of Uzumati Ceramics
Ceramics have always reminded me of my mom. It is something she has always loved doing, even if the opportunity for her to do so didn’t come very often. I can picture her with mud up to her elbows, leaning over a wheel, with her curly hair thrown up into a bun like it is something I see every day. I promised her that if the day ever comes that I can get her a wheel, a kiln, and some clay, I will make that happen. I hope one day I can fulfill that promise to her.
There is something personal about ceramics, like pieces of the potter were spun into the clay, and it radiates through the glaze. You can feel the energy when you touch it. Through Jaclyn’s art, you can feel and see her love for the rawness of nature, and the commitment to her craft. She made sacrifices for her business, not just by making the leap to start Uzumati, but by continually putting in time and effort to make each of these quality pieces every day.
Read more of Jaclyn’s story below
Tell me about your brand:
Uzumati Ceramics exists to explore the connection between people and wild places through handcrafted stoneware collections inspired by rugged landscapes and storied travels.
What does your business do or provide?
Uzumati Ceramics makes functional ceramic vessels for everyday living
What do you feel sets you and your business apart from others?
In a world of fast paced living and consumerism, Uzumati Ceramics makes durable goods that foster slow paced, shared moments that will last a lifetime.
What is your business’s backstory? How and why did you start your business?
In 2016 I took a local ceramics class for the first time and INSTANTLY FELL IN LOVE! I bought a wheel shortly after that and a year later quit my full time job to pursue this passion. It felt wild and bold at the time, but it was exactly what I needed in that period of my life. 6 years later I am still madly in love with playing in the dirt.
What are the driving passions and morals for you and your business?
As a climber and lifelong pursuant of the outdoors, Jaclyn embodies her hard-earned experiences in each piece she creates. Every small-batch collection that leaves her studio is hand thrown, hand carved, and hand glazed. A one-woman-ran business taking pride in creating durable goods you’ll bring into your home and use every day.
What do you think really put your business on the map?
In the beginning I was doing more wholesale to get my brand out there. I focused on only working with brands that truly aligned with my work and ethos. I've been picky, and it's paid-off. As my business has grown, I have slowly transitioned away from wholesale and focused on selling direct to consumers. This has helped to foster a strong connection with the product just by knowing exactly who and where it was made.
What are the most gratifying parts and most challenging parts of being a business owner?
Seeing my work in the hands of like-minded people is a beautiful thing. I love knowing that my craft can foster shared meals and moments. As a one-woman team, there are many challenges to running a business. My personal biggest challenge is balancing the art with the admin. If I had it my way, I would never have to touch a computer.
What is your favorite memory of running your business?
When I first started, I would do large craft fairs in the Bay Area. I ABSOLUTELY loved getting to meet my customers in person, talk about things we had in common and hear their stories about what piece(s) they had that really spoke to them and why.
How has your background/ life story played a role in who you are today?
I grew up as an athlete and pursued collegiate sports. The dedication that goes into playing at a collegiate level has helped me in business and in life. Some say I am a "Do-er". If I have an idea, goal, desire — I will do what's necessary to reach it.
What is one accomplishment you are most proud of in terms of your business?
Honestly, It's the simple fact that I am here 6 years later and still doing it.
Is there someone or something you would like to thank or give credit to for your business ventures?
It takes a village! For anyone and everyone that has helped along the way, I extend my gratitude to you. And of course a special shout-out to my husband who has been my rock through this adventure in life and business.
Small businesses are the building blocks for a strong community. What are your favorite things to do, see, or share in your community?
I agree! Hosting workshops in my studio has been a great way to not only get more involved with my community, but also create new experiences for our small community. I also just started FORMS — a collaborative workshop between artist and place. WIth Forms, I bring in additional artists for weekend long workshops. My goal with forms is to provide space for artists to share their work + build community.
Uzumati Ceramics Social Links, Contact Information, Location
Instagram @uzumaticeramics
Contact uzumaticeramics.com
Location: Bishop, Ca
