Profile: Dora De Larios

One of the most celebrated ceramic artists of our time, Dora De Larios’ body of work ranges from the small and intimate to the large-scale and impressive – every bit of it remarkable. When I first became acquainted with her work, I was immediately taken. Some of my favorites: her detailed vases, which serve as the perfect vessel for a small bouquet, and stand alone as a work of art.

Needless to say, when I began the process of curating my home store, her pieces were some of the first that came to mind. And when I had the opportunity to meet her, I was over the moon. Everything about seeing Dora in her element was beautiful and inspirational – her energy, her process, her work – and I am honored to be able to share it with you. I hope you enjoy. XXJKE

R+T: How and when did you enter into the world of ceramics? What was it that drew you to this art form?

I was first introduced to ceramics at Dorsey High School in the early 50’s. I loved clay from the moment I touched the material. I loved that it was so easy to form whatever I wanted to make. My teacher was Ruth Johnson, who had great faith in my gift and did all she could to promote my understanding of the material. I was given the privilege of being entrusted with the key to the ceramic bungalow where the class was taught. I would work every day after school making mostly sculptures. The janitor who was very kind would come by at 6:00 in the evening and tell me to go home. It was a great experience.

R+T: What are some of your largest sources of inspiration?

During my formative early years, my greatest source of inspiration was traveling to Mexico City by automobile with my Mom and Dad. The landscape of Mexico was a marvel of geological extremes. I was born in the United States and my parents migrated to the United States. My mother who was four years of age at the time walked with her family of five to the United States from Durango. My father arrived in the United States from Mexico in the 30’s. The art that my parents took me to see was of a culture that had created some of the most imaginative sculptures made of clay and various stones that were carved. The subject matter in both mediums were animals, serpents and deities who were fantastical in their magical powers. We visited Mexico from the time I was six years of age through my twenties. My cultural heritage is Hispanic by birth and after traveling around the world and living in various parts of the planet, I consider myself a citizen of the world. I have learned greatly from all cultures and only copy from the best which is everywhere in ancient civilizations.

R+T: What does the word handmade mean to you?

Handmade means to me that the object that has been produced is a reflection of the spirit of the creator. His or Her hand alone is unique in instilling the spirit of the maker. Handmade means the spirit and intention of the maker is forever captured in what they have made. There are no substitutes for handmade work. Handmade work has a soul and nothing will ever replace that passion for producing the best that the craftsman is able to make. It is a gift.

R+T: Tell us a bit about your process… Do you have a clear idea for each of the pieces you create, or do they tend to evolve as they go?

When I create something in clay, it is as if I am standing in front of a blank canvas. I have the innate sense that I am filling in the blanks by working. The work has already been created, I just fill in the blanks. For example, I don’t think of designs, they just come forth when I work. My only decision seems to be that I want to throw 50 small bowls for carving. I throw the forms, then begin carving.

I have learned over the years that ideas come more readily when I work and keep working. There will never be enough time to learn everything that interests me about clay.

R+T: With a body of work that ranges from the small and intimate to the large scale and impressive, is there a common thread that runs throughout?

I have always had a love of learning about various materials, their strengths and weaknesses. Each material that I have worked with – cement, wood, plaster, clay, brass and copper – have all afforded me the privilege of understanding their inner beauty. I have been blessed in that I have been able to pursue these interests and have had numerous commissions for site specific Art. The common thread that runs through in intimate pieces to murals is my love of those materials and the ability to create beauty.

R+T: If you had to, could you pick a favorite piece or collection?

If I had to, I could not pick a favorite piece or collection. I have made so many beautiful works that it would be difficult to choose. I love everything that I make, and when I don’t they are relegated to the dumpster, fully smashed to bits.

R+T: What is the most rewarding part of your work?

The most rewarding part of my work is sharing it with others. I am grateful for my life. My job is and always has been to create joy and beauty. I thank The Creator for this priceless gift and for the energy to carry it out.