Shannon is a US ceramicist based in Cincinnati, Ohio. Her focus during residency consisted of a compilation of lighthearted experiments as she attempted to push the envelope of color, canvas, form and purpose. Shannon’s work often surrounds themes of queerness, femininity, aging and humor. To her, ceramics serves as a vessel for exploration, curiosity and community.

During my March residency at Fish Factory, I spent lots of time getting to know the petri dish of moss that covered the neighboring foothills. The soft, forgiving nature of Icelandic moss creates an environment that inherently encourages play- what a joy!!

I came to the Fish Factory without a specific goal, just the intention to create everyday. I immediately dove into exploring what surface design and small batch production could mean to me. I found myself in the clay studio mimicking landscapes I hadn’t even seen yet! The collective energy of the residency space and the people inspired immediate, almost urgent, acts of lively creativity. The ceramics lab became a haven of playfulness and community as it absorbed other resident artists looking to experiment with a new medium. Some would come for a day, another would stay for the entirety of the month. It was very special to watch others fall in love with clay in real time!

I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to create, experiment, laugh and explore at Fish Factory! Thank you to all who made it possible and to all who made it special!

@shannonmrenner

@allbluecrayonbox