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Bio
Tyler Zheng is a ceramic artist based in San Francisco, working out of his studio in the Castro. With a background in mechanical engineering, he first came to clay while designing planters for a cactus collection, bringing a problem-solving sensibility to functional pottery. The designs found an immediate audience, selling out with every online shop update, and eventually led him to a deeper practice in functional, wood-fired pottery. He learned ceramics through local instructors, including Andy Ruble at Foothill College, as well as workshops, and an intensive program in Jingdezhen, China to learn traditional throwing methods. Inspired by the community at Cobb Mountain Art and Ecology Project, he has been firing there since 2020, drawn to the process, natural finishes and the sense of community.
Artist’s statement
My work begins with curiosity and play, often inspired by solving a small problem, whether it's real or fabricated, such as a cup holder for hilly Dolores park or an anti-gravity pour over stand. Ideas range from a landscape inspired bonsai vessel to small designs for daily use. The tension between functionality and simple forms keeps me playing and iterating.
I chose wood firing because its finishes remind me of the natural world. For example, the wood ash melting on the surface of each piece creates dimensionality through its natural ash glazing effect and by showing the motions of flame. Wood firing also takes some control away from the maker; many of my designs start in early failure, which is a humbling part of the wood firing process. I have learned to take solace in the errors that cause pieces to collapse and to make minute changes for the next firing. I am constantly searching to showcase the beautiful subtlety of the medium and to create pieces quiet enough to let the kiln finish their story through its embellishments of color, texture, and depth.
