September 2025 – Ceramics Demonstration with Roy Lizama

ARTIST STATEMENT

When studying to be a painter, I learned the basic elements of art, including composition, design and color theory. These basic elements are essential in my approach to ceramic art. I chose clay as my medium because it allows me a way to express myself both physically and spiritually.

Forty years ago, my first pottery teacher introduced me to the technique of using dowels to create a seamless cylinders in clay. I have continued to work with this method, to make both functional and sculptural vessels.

I create vases and vessels for Ikebana. Ikebana is the Art of Japanese Flower Arranging. After more than a decade of making vases, I became a member of Ikebana International Sacramento, Chapter #26, to study the Sogetsu style of flower arranging. I attend classes at the Shepard Gardens Art Center, and at the Wakamatsu Farm in Placerville. I incorporate the traditions of both aesthetics and functional aspects of my vases.

My forms are organic in nature. I like to produce textures that resemble bark on trees and rugged rock surfaces. I use slips, engobes and mason stains for color. Shinos, celadons and Tenmokus are just a few of the Japanese influenced glazes that I use.

I received my BFA, from the San Francisco Art Institute, and an MFA from Lone Mountain College in San Francisco. I worked as an illustrator for the Presidio Army Base, in San Francisco, and at the Great Lakes Navel Training Center, in Illinois. I was also a photographer and an arts and crafts instructor in Fort Sheridan Army Base.

I was born on the island of Guam, moved to Santa Clara California when I was seventeen. I receive my high school diploma from Adrian Wilcox.

After getting my AA degree from West Valley Junior College, I was drafted into the US Army. I was stationed with the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Vietnam. I received a Purple Heart, Combat Infantry Badge, and was medically retired with a service connected disability.