Today we’d like to introduce you to Steph Brendel
Hi Steph, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Silly Goose Ceramics was born when the number of mugs I had made far exceeded the number of mugs any person logically needs in their home. I participated in my first market in February of 2023 and since then have sold over 200 mugs, coasters, plates, yarn bowls, and so much more.
I fell in love with ceramics in a high school pottery class, and then continued on to minor in art in college in North Carolina. I studied graphic design, so the art minor fit perfectly in, and I loved spending as much time as I could in the studio. My friends got used to receiving random bowls and jars from me as birthday and Christmas gifts, and I really loved sharing what I made.
Four years later and one move to Austin from the DC Area, I finally made time to dedicate myself to ceramics. I began taking classes at Mud Studio, where I now work as a studio monitor. I absolutely love the studio, and the creative community in Austin is truly so special! From pop-ups and markets around town, I’ve met so many amazing artists and artisans and love sharing my work.
Silly Goose Ceramics is a bright, bold extension of myself, and I pour my personality into every single piece I make.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Ceramic art isn’t exactly small or lightweight, so lugging everything to markets can definitely be a challenge. I’m grateful for my boyfriend and his help in setting up markets, especially carrying tables.
Adding to the inventory is a challenge in and of itself, as each piece has to be thrown, trimmed, fired, glazed, and fired again. It’s a lengthy process, and the kiln can be unpredictable at times. From pieces cracking to shrinking an unexpected amount, to glazes turning out unexpected shades, there’s always a level of unpredictability in ceramics.
Finding the time and energy to create while working a full-time job also has its challenges, but that’s what truly makes Silly Goose a project born of passion.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a full time graphic designer, but ceramics is my hobby-turned-side hustle. Silly Goose Ceramics really is the perfect name for my work, because it doesn’t take itself too seriously. I throw on the wheel or sculpt everything I make and then use underglaze to paint unique designs on every mug, from fruit to cow print to boobs to, of course, geese.
I think my work stands out because it’s so colorful, and I think everyone’s lives could be a bit brighter. It puts a smile on my face, and I’ve found a lot of fellow silly geese who love these bright and happy things too.
Any big plans?
My main plan is just to keep creating and trying new things. New shapes, new designs, new objects. I also want to keep learning – ceramics, glazing specifically, is a LOT of chemistry, and there is a wonderful ceramics community in the greater Austin area that I have a lot to learn from. One day, I would love to have a home studio with my own wheel and kiln, but for now, apartment living and Mud Studio are everything I need.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sillygooseceramics
Image Credits
Braz Creative Studio
