Who are you and what do you do?

Shoshana Bilunos and I am a ceramic artist. Most all of my ceramic work is glazed in crystalline glazes. It is an ancient Japanese glaze technique that was being lost in the ceramic world. So the past 7 years have focused mainly on perfecting this technique.

Why do you do what you do?

Working in clay has always been a passion. I love the feel and the texture of the clay. The challenge of making vessels that will allow crystals to grow fascinates me. Working in clay has been therapeutic and relieves stress in my life.

What themes do you pursue?

I’m not sure about a specific theme in my work. Vases seem to be a form that will produce the best crystals. I am always trying different forms and surfaces that will produce crystals, but crystalline glaze runs off of the surface easily. Global shapes seem to capture the crystals best rather than a flat surface.

Describe a real life situation that inspired you.

In 2010 I was forced to give up my professional life because of health issues. I was angry because I wasn’t ready to give up my professional career. That is when I realized that clay was a good way for me to channel my frustration and energy.

What jobs have you done other than being an artist?

My professional life was dedicated to helping patients and families cope with life threatening illness. I spent many years as a medical social worker on the oncology floors in local hospitals to working hospice. My last professional years, I had a private practice working with adults and adolescents.

What are your hobbies?

I love doing projects around my house, traveling and motorcycle touring.