Betsey Carter Ceramics
Los Angeles, California
Tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do:
Betsey: Betsey Carter Ceramics
I’m a potter, making functional ceramics for the home and table. I’m from Charleston, SC., and my husband and I moved to Los Angeles nearly 8 years ago to be near our daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren.
What is your signature style / item? How did it become so?
My style has changed since moving to southern California. Growing up in Charleston, my work reflected the formal and historical aesthetic of the city. Over the past 8 years my style has evolved to a more relaxed, casual, and modern look, moving much of my work from porcelain to stoneware, and utilizing the rich colors, simple shapes, and soaring vistas of the west.
What makes your business unique to the industry?
In college I majored in Art History, with studio focus on sculpture and ceramics, so my practice is based on college level instruction. I’ve also been making pottery for many years, and thus have studied, observed, or been a part of many movements and trends in ceramics. In addition, prior to moving to LA, I was co-owner of a thriving ceramics studio and gallery in Charleston, gaining the practical and technical experience that endeavor entails. While none of this experience is unique on its own, taken together it provides a wide level of experience and outlook.
What's been your biggest roadblock when it comes to business and how have you been able to overcome?
Courtesy of Larry Gale
My biggest road block has been restarting my pottery business in a new city. I’ve been able overcome this road block the same way I first started my business years ago. I got to work finding studio space, building up my collection, and taking advantage of every opportunity to meet people and get my work seen. I’ve done many markets and pop-up shows which allowed me to meet customers, shop keepers, and gallery owners, and I have been incredibly fortunate to have developed a wonderful group of loyal customers and stockists.
How has your business had to adapt amidst the Covid-19 Pandemic? What are you doing to navigate the situation?
With all the spring and summer markets and pop-ups cancelled or postponed I’ve had to rethink my strategy. I have been fortunate that many loyal customers, whom I would normally have seen at the shows, have reached out to me for new products. My amazing stockists are working hard to keep their businesses afloat, and I send much love to these wonderful people. I’ve also been putting more energy into online sales.
What is your favorite part of what you do?
Without question, its the making. I love throwing pots more than just about anything.
What is your *must do* local activity?
We live just steps away from Elysian Park, so walking and hiking the trails are probably my number one “must do”. There are so many great restaurants in Echo Park, and Village Bakery and Cafe, Pizza Buona, Ostrich Farm, Max City BBQ, and Brite Spot are in heavy rotation.
Where to find Betsey Carter Ceramics
Online: www.betseycarter.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betseycarterceramics
Facebook: Betsey Carter Ceramics