Meet The Maker: Nga Nguyen-Weaver
Introducing Nga Nguyen-Weaver! Nga teaches intermediate throwing classes at the studio including a Wheel Throwing Intensive and a Wheel Thrown Teaset class. We are so happy that she shares her expertise in throwing with our students. ( We recommend you join Nga and up your throwing game - you’ll even go home with your very own teaset!) We asked Nga a few questions about her life and practice - meet the maker.
HAND / THROWN: Tell us a little about you!
NGA NGUYEN-WEAVER: I am a studio potter creating functional ware for over half of my life now. I started after college and have been happily making wares for everyday rituals.
HT: Tell us a little bit about the style of work you enjoy making most!
NNW: I love making items that will be used everyday. It brings me great joy when clients, family, or friends tell me how they love using their pieces for coffee, eating ice cream, dinner...whatever.
HT: What originally drew you to working with clay?
NNW: Clay is very tactile and provides an almost immediate sense of gratification when creating. However, there is a process to the finished work which requires patience and diligence, but is so worth the time and effort when you open up that glaze kiln!
HT: Where have you studied ceramics, if you have. Or who have you studied with that left a lasting impression?
NNW: I graduated from VCU in the Craft Department and went on to intern with a potter in Maine and New Hampshire. Those production years were super beneficial to honing my throwing skills.
HT: What is your favorite tool, why?
NNW: I do not have a favorite tool. Sometimes, I have to work with what I have and that’s all that’s needed.
HT: What type of clay do you work with and why?
NNW: I work with both dark and light clay bodies. They affect the glazes in different ways. Sometimes one is better than the other depending on if I want a brighter or warmer look.
HT: Where do you find inspiration for your work?
NNW: Being outdoors is the best way to find inspiration. What is in the natural world I find most exciting: patterns, colors, textures, shapes, function. It’s all there.
HT: Who are some artists you admire, why?
NNW: Andrew Bird: Fantastic musician and songwriter. Frida Kahlo: Inner strength, creative proliferation, activism.
Andrew Bird, 'My Finest Work Yet'
Frida Kahlo, The Bride Who Becomes Frightened When She See Life Opened, 1943, oil on canvas.
Frida Kahlo, Self-portait with Monkeys, 1943, oil on canvas
HT: Describe your favorite piece of pottery (currently)
NNW: I’ve been using hand made mugs recently. They are from various potters and fit the mood of the moment.
HT: What’s your sign?
NNW: Ha! Libra, year of the rooster.
HT: Cats or Dogs?
NNW: Definitely cats.
HT: What’s your favorite winter weather thing to do?
NNW: Watch movies and drink wine, preferably with a lit fireplace.
HT: Favorite place to eat in Richmond?
NNW: Oooh, not fair. So many to choose from… India K’Raja or Mom’s Siam.
