While wandering the Turquoise trail on a trip to New Mexico, I traveled up the road and followed the signs …So happy to discover artist Jarrett West and his studio tucked up into a hill like a creative oasis in the desert sun. Jarrett was so warm and invited us to come inside and take a look.
You are greeted to the outside with a sculpture garden of his work. Jarrett's work as a sculptor is impressive and at the same time very approachable with pieces of modern art designed to live long among nature. You can immediately recognize he is an artist who lives his life and work as one. After talking with Jarrett you can see his studio is very connected to him as he hand built it using straw bale and stone techniques that inspire his work. Jarrett makes each piece of pottery with the spirit of care and strength. I felt most inspired behind the scenes at work in progress taking a glimpse of collected art, photos and relics around the studio that tell their own story. The artisan studio is filled with creative energy and his relaxed way makes you want to linger...
Having grown up in the West on ranches you can see Jarrett's affinity in working with his hands. He uses a traditional treadle wheel with many of the pieces altered after throwing to develop the form further. Jarrett is obviously connected to nature and his artisan life on the turquoise trail. He hand built the outdoor kiln which is an outstanding sculpture on it's own. And the stoneware pottery is all high fired in the outdoor kiln with each given unique glazes- so no two are alike and all are one of a kind. That's definitely a perfect match for us at FOUND&MADE. The pottery vessels are like little sculptures with each carrying his original makers mark impressed into the piece. And we especially like how some of the pieces carry treasures he finds while wandering the New Mexico trails. Like pieces of driftwood or stones that speak to him, he pairs up with each piece of pottery to capture a moment in time.
We are so happy to offer a select grouping of Jarrett West pottery on the website. We hope you enjoy as much as we do, for days to come.
