About

Luke Shalan is a ceramic artist working in Sugarloaf, CA.  While examining both traditional and unconventional forms of production, he emphasizes the importance of creative concept and process in his work.

Luke seeks to uncover the nuances found in mundane processes, showcasing materiality and continually reminding himself (and others) that we are physical beings living in reactive, unpredictable space. Luke enjoys pushing the limits of the material, while continuing to master and utilize traditional forms of ceramic production.

In order to fulfill his fascination with process, and clay’s material properties, Luke invented slab-dropping devices, which allow gravity to lower a slab of clay onto an object without direct human interaction. After the slab has been released, the soft clay takes an impression from the shape of the object below, acting as an archive of this unique process.

 Continuing to explore this method of archiving has led Luke to further dictate his ceramic creations. He has applied the slab dropping technique to much of his work, including 60 unique plates for an experimental dinner, ceramic cactus paddles, and CUBES. Luke ventures on, down the slab-dropping road, excited by the uncertainty and possibilities found through his continued and evolving exploration.

Alongside experimentation with slab-dropping, Luke views himself as an observer of material and process, and strives to showcase the unique properties clay possesses through his work.

 Luke participated as a Short-Term ARTIST IN RESIDENCE at AMOCA STUDIO at the AMERICAN MUSEUM OF CERAMIC ART (March-October 2024) where he developed TORN NUBS and SPIRAL REFLECTION. Both series investigate individuality, struggle to find ones path, and a feeling of letting go of control while continuing deep observation of the process and outcomes.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT LUKE’S WORK CHECK OUT THIS ARTIST TALK FROM HIS RESIDENCY AT AMOCA.

Lukes work can be found at Lawson-Fenning, through AOK Create’s livestream sales and through Bradley Duncan Studio.

Luke also offers custom commissions. Please reach out, I’d love to work together!