NICA Board Member | Ana Luz Sainz Rodriguez
I consider it a privilege to serve the Northern Indiana Clay Alliance as a representative of the many young adults interested in embarking on a career in the ceramic arts. I hold dual Mexican and American citizenship and have lived many years in both nations. I am thus able to bring a much needed perspective on the nuances within the culture group, the societal and familial expectations as well as the pressures and limitations all immigrants are likely to face.
I became interested in the Ceramic Arts while taking classes at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. After taking every pottery class available at KVCC, I made it a goal to collect multiple perspectives on what it takes to establish oneself as a studio potter, both in the United States and in Mexico. I undertook an internship with Troy Bungart, an established studio potter who has participated in the Goshen, IN community of potters and the Michiana Pottery Tour. As an intern, I have made many contacts within the Arts Community and have been able to expand and diversify my knowledge of ceramic materials and techniques as well as professional promotion and marketing.
I have exhibited at various entry level shows over the past couple of years and am a regular vendor selling my pottery at the Kalamazoo Farmers Market. I intend to work my way into more prestigious art fairs and exhibitions. My passion is studying Aztec imagery and culture in order to translate and modernize heritage Aztec influences in my work. I hope my work will help Americans develop respect for the ancient roots of a culture that fellow immigrants bring into the country.