The Queue: Alice Fujii
Get to know the people featured in the pages of our magazine as they share what's inspiring them right now.
A biweekly roundup for and by the craft community, The Queue introduces you to the artists, curators, organizers, and more featured in the current issue of American Craft. We invite these inspiring individuals to share personally about their lives and work as well as what's inspiring them right now.
Alice Fujii’s background in illustration and commercial art—painting backgrounds for animated TV shows and creating motion graphics for commercials and documentaries—is reflected in her bold and dynamic nature-inspired ceramics. You can see her work in the Market section of the Summer 2022 issue of American Craft.
LEFT: Alice Fujii, portrait courtesy of the artist. RIGHT: Berry bowl, photo by Alice Fujii.
How do you describe your work or practice?
I am a ceramic artist who makes functional pieces and home decor.
The past couple of years have presented many challenges, from a global pandemic to renewed urgency around issues of racial equity and police brutality. As we slowly move into a post-pandemic world, how are you finding beauty and staying grounded?
For myself, the pandemic was a swift kick in the behind to remember and appreciate all the beauty around us in nature. From the sunshine to the butterflies that come to visit our backyard, nature continues to be a constant in helping me stay grounded.
Light fixtures, photos by Alice Fujii.
The theme of the current issue of American Craft is “forge.” Can you reflect on that theme as it relates to your work and practice?
There are several definitions to forge, but as a verb, forge is to move forward slowly and steadily. My relationship with clay has always been to continually improve my skills and learn and grow as a maker and artist.
What’s one of your favorite tools in your toolkit that the world should know about?
One of my favorite go-to tools is the red rubber rib from Sherrill Mudtools. I love its ability to remove throwing marks from my pieces and smooth surfaces.
If you could purchase some artwork for your home or studio, whose would it be and why?
I would love to own a piece by Jennifer McCurdy. Her ceramic pieces have a sense of movement, fluidity, and grace that I adore. I saw her pieces in person at NCECA and was blown away by the delicacy and attention to the edges.
Are you binge-watching anything right now, and if so, what is it?
My family and I found Doctor Who during the COVID lockdown and have finally caught up to the current episodes. I love how they weave history, climate issues, social issues, and the occasional alien into the stories.
Jennifer McCurdy, Coral Nest, 2020, as featured in the Summer 2021 American Craft article "Sea Change." Photo by Gary Mirando.
Inspired by the people featured in The Queue?
Dive deeper into their work in the pages of American Craft magazine. Become a member of the American Craft Council to get a subscription and help fund a range of nonprofit programs that elevate the craft community.
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