Ceramics have seen a major resurgence in popularity over the past few years, but it’s an art form that has been around since humans could figure out how to use those handy thumbs. Ceramic art is simplistic, yet stunningly beautiful, and artist Nicole Novena’s is some of the prettiest we’ve ever seen. It’s timeless and thoughtfully crafted by Nicole in her seaside studio in San Diego. When there isn’t a major pandemic, you can visit the studio for yourself for some self-care and creativity and get your hands dirty. I asked Nicole if we could share more about her craft and her routines during COVID-19, and she agreed, so here we go!

Can you tell us a little bit about you?

I live in Encinitas, outside of San Diego with my husband Max, son Roark and dog Hooper. I create modern pottery so…I guess I’m considered a ceramist or ceramic artist (it has taken me years to be comfortable saying this). My work has been commissioned for television commercials, is adored by interior designers and is popping up in homes across the country.

How did you get into ceramics?

I grew up in Vermont and took a ceramics class my freshman year of high school as my art elective and fell in love. For years, it was a creative outlet, a hobby…something I enjoyed doing and didn’t think too much about it. There’s a little bit of instant gratification when throwing on the wheel that I find rewarding. Working with clay is therapeutic, it mirrors many of life’s lessons, connects us to nature and forces us to slow down. I find it to be a great healthy addiction. Often, when I give lessons, I compare throwing to surfing…when everything comes together you’re kind of “riding” a little wave of clay.

Where do you find inspiration for your pieces?

I’ve always been drawn to simple, minimal design. I have so much respect for Heath Ceramics and East Fork Pottery. I love scrolling through Pinterest and seeing what pops up after typing in Scandinavian Design inspo.

What has been your favorite project to date?

I’m torn. My altered vase series because of what they mean, but I love how my modern drinkware line is so simple yet so many recognize it when it pops up in their social media or Pinterest feeds. The altered vase collection celebrates the process, embraces imperfection and highlights the beauty of pushing ourselves just a tad further. The vases are a visual ode to the potter or really any creative. You can learn more here. My top-selling work is a Carafe + Cup Set. It’s modern, minimal and thoughtfully designed. The carafe deceivingly holds a bottle of wine and each cup holds six ounces. It is often gifted to newlyweds, serves as a thoughtful home or anniversary present (particularly those celebrating their ninth anniversary who follow the traditional gift route) and perfect for a wine or sake lover.

Nicole’s Cup + Carafe Set featured in Mandy Moore’s bedroom

Aside from ceramics, do you have any creative hobbies?

Every now and then, I’ll get the itch to create with something other than clay. But, I find myself using any spare time to get in some exercise. I crave a hike with my Bernese Mountain Dog, Hooper, a few times a month. Hiking is a great way to step back from the hustle and find creative inspiration from nature. And, I enjoy golfing, too.

How do you handle creative burnout?

I’ve tried to build my business to weather the ebbs and flows and pressures of making. I have a storefront and studio in Encinitas, CA. The part-store, part-studio is open a few days a week to allow locals to shop my work in person but more importantly, to share my craft and create a creative haven for others. I host workshops, provide lessons and more so others can take a turn at the wheel and play with clay. I’m a Libra…I need balance and I find this formula works for me.

“Working with clay is therapeutic, it mirrors many of life’s lessons, connects us to nature and forces us to slow down. I find it to be a great healthy addiction.”

What does a typical day look like for you?

I’m writing this in the midst of COVID-19 so my days are a bit different and unfortunately less productive because I have a little man at home now. But, generally speaking, my work is always in various different stages…it’s a process from throwing, drying, etc. I’m continuously moving things along each day from designing to slip casting to glazing and shipping orders. On the days my studio is open, I’m usually booked with lessons and studio visitors. Any other time is spent doing business-related work.

You’re a fellow San Diegan, what drew you to the coast?

We’ve lived in a lot of places. New England, Denver, Seattle, Jacksonville…we feel more at home on the West Coast even though we both grew up back East. When we had our son in 2014, we wanted to settle down, and California made sense because we have family here. We landed in Encinitas for the laid-back beach vibe and strong sense of community. Plus, my husband is a surfer…enough said, right?

Do you have any favorite local spots for shopping and eating?

Yes! We frequent Besta Wan and Fish 101 in Cardiff. For a date night, Campfire is a go-to. I’m friends with all the folks in Oceanside at Rising Co., so that’s my go-to for shopping and gifts.

Do you have a daily uniform/outfit?

Haha, yes! I wear a jumpsuit from Outerknown. My husband gifted it to me a year ago and it has become a weekly staple.

What’s your flow when you’re working in the studio? Do you listen to music or podcasts?

I am a huge Led Zeppelin fan so Ramble On, That’s The Way…all the classics. I like The Black Keys, Vance Joy, Grace Potter and Florence and the Machine, too.

What are your all-time favorite, must-read books?

The Glass Castle. The Fountainhead. And, the children’s book The Rabbit Listened is my fav.

What are you currently reading?

I’m not reading anything. I know…lame. I need to check out GG’s suggestions.

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

A night owl…especially if I’m in a good creative groove. I can stay up working until 2 a.m.

What’s your favorite way to spend a Sunday?

I love sleeping in and soaking up some snugs with my family. From there, a slow cup of tea. A hike with Hooper. Maybe a run or hike. Maybe a little work.

Current beauty routine?

I subscribe to IPSY so each month I get a personalized bag of items delivered monthly. I really look forward to it. I’m feeling really old these days so the nightly face oil is key. We love Bathing Culture products.

Coffee or tea?

Tea. I love a good tea latte. Lofty Coffee in San Diego makes an amazing London Fog latte.

What’s always in your fridge?

It’s certainly heavier on the drinks and breakfast options than anything else. But, we always have a few veggies, Cardiff Crack from Seaside Market, wine and lots of La Croix for our nightly Casamigos and soda with lime.

Do you cook? Do you have a go-to recipe you like to make?

Yes, I make a kale, sweet potato and quinoa dish with tahini dressing once a week. I have a sweet tooth so I’ve been making banana and oat cookies with chocolate chips…it’s just mashed bananas, oat flour and chocolate chips, and bake for 18 minutes at 350 F. It’s been a lifesaver during COVID-19.