Megs LeVesseur Makes Ceramics that are Beautiful and Functional
By Jennifer Wray, writer at Columbus College of Art & Design
Columbus College of Art & Design alum Megs LeVesseur (Fine Arts, 2010) makes ceramics with a personal touch. The Denver, Colorado native came to Columbus to attend CCAD, fell in love with the local arts and clay community, and never left. See what she’s been up to by paying a visit to her at CCAD’s virtual 2020 Art Fair & Marketplace Friday, Dec. 4–Sunday, Dec. 6, where you’ll find her handbuilt vases, mugs, bowls, plates, ornaments and planters for sale alongside other pieces by CCAD students and alumni.
We chatted with LeVesseur about her practice, her time at CCAD, the Art Fair and what’s up next.
Jennifer: What inspires your work?
Megs: The Botanical Collection of handmade ceramics is inspired by vintage fabric, mid-century dishes and the playfulness of street art. It is reminiscent of geometric and organic patterns in nature.
Jennifer: Can you describe your creative process?
Megs: Day to day, my creative process differs, but the most important part for my process is to allow myself time to “play” and try new things in the studio! Sometimes as an independent artist I can get bogged down with prepping for wholesale orders and shows, forgetting to think creatively.
Jennifer: Can you describe the work you’ll be selling at the Art Fair & Marketplace?
Megs: I will be selling pieces from my Botanical Ceramics Collection, which uses traditional hand-building techniques, terra sigillata and multiple glaze layers. Each piece is handcrafted for BEAUTY and FUNCTION. I want my artwork to be accessible to a wide range of individuals, so I offer a variety of price points ranging from $5 to $200.
Jennifer: How does your time as a CCAD student inspire the work you do today?
Megs: Even though I took my very first ceramics throwing class around 10 years old and basically fell in love with the tactile element and versatility of clay, I learned so many things pursuing my undergraduate degree from CCAD. I was able to further develop my skillset and create a unique dialogue producing functional art for everyday life.
Jennifer: How would you describe the Columbus arts scene?
Megs: The Columbus arts scene is GREAT! There are niches for all types of artists to use their voices. The Greater Columbus Arts Council has done a great job of supporting the arts and artists in Columbus as well as bringing artists and events to Columbus for us to enjoy.
Jennifer: Do you have any other upcoming projects or events?
Megs: I am excited to be teaching hand-building classes at the Cultural Arts Center this winter.
See works by Megs LeVesseur and other talented artists and designers at CCAD’s annual wintertime Art Fair & Marketplace Friday, Dec. 4–Sunday, Dec. 6, online at ccad.edu/artfair. The art fair features a range of items created by CCAD students and alumni and all sale proceeds go directly to the artists and designers themselves.
Learn more about Megs LeVesseur and her work at megslevesseur.com.