Artist Interview: Terri Ekvall

Sep 16, 2022 | SCC members, artist interview, ceramics, clay | 0 comments

 

Introduction written by Maria Hendrika:

I am so pleased to introduce my new friend and colleague Terri Ekvall. Terri is an accomplished ceramics artist who produces wheel thrown, hand built and sculptural work. A graduate of the University of Regina, Terri started her studies in Mathematics, switched gears and obtained her BFA majoring in Ceramics and Painting. She is a busy woman juggling a fulltime career, family, home studio and teaching in the community. As a busy woman she appreciates life’s few moments of quiet and contemplation. Her work encourages us to take a breather. Savor the moment, appreciate the beautiful cup in your hand and enjoy the beverage that it holds. Terri’s unique ceramic pieces would be a stylish addition to any home. I particularly love her whimsically decorated cups, bowls and teapots adored with painted butterflies and mushrooms. They just make me smile!
 
 
 

 

 

Interview with Terri Ekvall

Terri Ekvall Ceramics

Website: terriekvall.ca
Instagram: @tekvall
Facebook: Terri Ekvall Ceramics

 

 

 

What kind of artwork do you create?

I make unique pieces of ceramics that explore the life and are a pleasure to use.

 

 

Where did you learn your craft?

I completed a BFA from the University of Regina with a Major in Ceramics and Painting. I also like to attend workshops with other artists to learn and try out new processes and techniques.

 

What is the inspiration behind your work?

I enjoy nature and the small moments life has to offer. Like taking pleasure in sitting the my garden with a cup of coffee. I also draw inspiration from some of my favorite stories or myths. I love Alice in Wonderland for instance which has resulted in whimsical mushrooms and caterpillars smoking hookahs on some of my newer work. With my sculptural work I also explore my experiences as a woman, mother and the struggles balancing work with other personal interests and responsibilities.

 

 

What do you hope people will gain from interacting with your work?

I hope that people who are using my work are reminded to take the time to be in that moment. Enjoy the little things that bring pleasure to our day. A walk in the garden. That first cup of coffee in the morning. I like to think that my work brings and additional layer of joy to that moment in time or their home.

 

How do you get through artist’s block?

Go to the studio and just start working. It does not have to be making the next great work of Art. Sometimes I start by cleaning to get ready to work. I often will discover sketches for projects that I have not yet made and that will give me a place to start creating. Other time,. I will just start throwing something on the wheel. Coffee mugs or bowls that allow me to mentally relax and then the ideas will start to flow. As an instructor and the Cathedral Art school and studio I often find the students will ask me to show them how to make something and that will also lead to some ideas of things to try out for myself.

 

What are you currently working on?

Currently I am building inventory for some spring sales. The Cathedral Arts Festival market, Bazaart in Regina and hopefully Part Art in Moose Jaw. I also have a few commissions that I am working on in-between. I have been starting to play around with throwing and altering the work. But also continuing to make some of my styles of work as well.