though her medium has changed over time, amy dov has been a practicing artist for many years. she lives with her husband and two children in a lovely Los Angeles home with much of the space intentionally set aside to encourage and enable creativity. her newest work of vessels and mesmerizing wall hangings explores the elements of time and nature. amy surrounds herself with collections from nature, displaying them in methodical and lovely ways around the house as they inspire or become part of her next piece. enjoy this home studio tour and interview with ceramic artist amy dov.
Were you working elsewhere before leaving to start your business?
I have been working with children for over 20 years. My husband and I opened an art school in West Los Angeles in 1997 where I continue to teach. It has always allowed each of us to both teach and time to work on our own art.
Was your path motivated by a particular creative need or personal goal?
I have painted for many years, working in oil and watercolors. Early on I also discovered a love for printmaking and ultimately worked to become a collaborative lithographer. My artistic path has lead me to work with various mediums over the years. I love raw materials. When I became a mother I closed my lithography studio, continued to teach part time and always managed to keep a painting studio for myself. As my children grew and I had more time, the yearning to rededicate myself to my art grew. About 4-5 years ago I discovered clay. It was a pretty instantaneous connection and within a few months my family got me a wheel for mothers day.
Where do you gain fuel that inspired your creative endeavors?
From being outside, from the quiet of the day, from nature. Walks, the beach, trees, wood, rocks, rust, bones. I collect, always in awe at how the wind, water and sun shape and transform what it touches. I am inspired by the natural growth of forms. Of course, there has been a lifelong appreciation and admiration of artists that inspire me, both historically and contemporary, through museums, galleries and travels.
What was the most unexpected aspect of your business?
Admittedly, I have been a bit leery of social media, yet I have been pleasantly surprised by the joy I have received from connecting with others around the globe.
What are some of your work tools that you can’t live without?
Tools are so integral to how I work. Aside from conventional clay tools, I use rocks and pieces of wood with the clay. I am quite connected to all my tools. I have some that have traveled with me from different places, creating a connection and depth that, for me, adds to the work I create. I weave the wall hangings with linen twine. The smell, color and texture always resonates with me and reminds me of my youth, growing up in a weavers home.
What are the top three things someone should consider before changing careers or starting their own business?
My simple advice is to trust yourself, your ideas and your path.
Is there a book that you particularly love?
I do love books. Agnes Martin Writings was a book I seemed to carry around a lot and reread for inspiration.
What do you currently have playing on the studio’s turntable?
My preference is always to work in silence. I need to hear the sound of the wheel or the tone from the tool on the clay. Somehow I see better when it is quiet.
• photography by lily glass for sfgirlbybay.
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