Welcome to another episode of Two River TV, where we bring you behind the scenes with inspiring creatives from our community. In this episode, host Jon Peters visits the Rumson, NJ studio of Judi Tavill, a talented ceramic artist with a fascinating journey from the world of fashion design to sculpting with clay.
From Fashion to Ceramics
Judi’s path to ceramics wasn’t a direct one. She always identified as a creative person, and early on, her artistic passion led her to study apparel and fashion design. She found success in the industry, working as the head designer for Lilly Pulitzer and even launching her own clothing line.
But as life evolved, so did her creative focus. A suggestion from a friend (who warned her about the toxicity of oil paints) led her to sign up for a ceramics class at a local park system. That single class changed everything. She discovered a deep love for working with clay, and 15 years later, she’s still completely immersed in the medium.
The Tools of the Trade
Judi walks us through some of the fundamental tools she uses in her ceramic process:
- Clay – The foundation of all her work.
- Wire Tool – Used to slice clay from a larger block. (Fun fact: You can substitute this with dental floss or fishing wire!)
- Wedging Board – Helps remove air pockets from the clay, ensuring a smooth, even consistency.
- Pottery Wheel – Where the magic of shaping happens.
- Sponges & Needle Tools – Used for adding water, refining edges, and carving intricate details.
- Pug Mill – A powerhouse tool that de-airs and preps clay, making the process easier on the hands, wrists, and shoulders.
The Process: From Wheel to Sculpture
Judi primarily works on the pottery wheel, throwing clay to create unique forms. Once the initial shape is complete, she lets the piece dry slightly before refining it further. In some cases, she even removes the foot of the piece, transforming it into a more sculptural form.
One of the most meditative and time-intensive parts of her process is texturing. Using simple tools, she carves intricate patterns into her pieces, letting intuition and creativity guide her. This stage requires patience but is also incredibly rewarding.
Getting Started in Ceramics
Interested in working with clay? Judi encourages beginners to explore their options:
- Watch online tutorials – YouTube is a great resource for learning basic techniques.
- Take a local class – Judi started at the Thompson Park Creative Arts Center in Monmouth County, where she honed her skills in both hand-building and wheel-throwing.
- Join a clay community – Whether through a class, workshop, or online group, finding like-minded artists can be inspiring and supportive.
Finding Your Tribe in the Clay World
One of the most rewarding aspects of Judi’s journey has been the community she’s found in ceramics. Whether learning, teaching workshops, or simply connecting with fellow artists, she emphasizes how ceramics isn’t just about the work—it’s about the people.
“There are all sorts of people working with clay at all different levels, and you can find your tribe. It’s a wonderful experience.”
Follow Judi Tavill’s Work
Want to see more of Judi’s stunning ceramic creations? Follow her on social media:
📸 Instagram: @jtceramics
👍 Facebook: Judi Tavill Ceramics
🌐 Website: www.jtceramics.com
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