about: shaun fera (she/her)

Shaun Fera creates functional & sculptural ceramics. Each piece is individually created with porcelain clay and finished utilizing a celadon glaze.  Shaun attended Warren Wilson College in Asheville NC & graduated with a BFA crafts/materials/ceramics from Virginia Commonwealth University. Shaun has worked with several ceramic & visual artists. Shaun is also a certified Special Education & Art Teacher k-12 in the state of Virginia.  

Shaun's love of art began at a young age through daydreaming. Creating small clay creatures which were housed inside her mother’s purse. Shaun’s art is inspired by nature observations, experiences working with neurodiverse students, her time as a maintenance worker at VCU, camp counselor, student worker in the ceramics department at Warren Wilson College, being a mother, friend, listener, and teacher. 

My sculptural work primarily focuses on the praying mantis. I am interested in the mantis’ gestures, movement, and how the insect navigates it’s harsh environment with it’s own fragile mechanical state.

My root bowls or tripod bowls were designed and created to serve a functional purpose in everyday life. My root bowls/tripod elevate everyday items, culinary creations, or for safe keeping. 

The mantis and root bowl/tripod collection are also part of a larger project that I am continuously working on: Dinnerware for uninvited guests. Dinnerware with a not so ergonomic aesthetic. I envision utilizing this dinnerware for a dark and comical dining experience.

All pieces are designed & created by me with porcelain clay, bisque fired, then finished with a celadon glaze.

Feel free to contact me through email (heartofthegoat@gmail.com) for any questions or interest in my ceramic creations. CV/Resume available upon request.

*In an effort to be sustainable and or environmentally conscious, I am mindful of when I fire my kiln. I usually fire overnight as well as loading the first fire (bisque fire) with as much ceramics as possible. Each glaze fire, I utilize every bit of space in hopes of minimal firings. I am currently investigating solar for my studio. I recycle my clay scraps and also collect rain water for cleaning my studio, my slip buckets, recycling clay and at times utilize it during throwing/hand building my pieces (when available). Lastly, I try re-use boxing and packing materials when possible. I continuously look for ways to be more environmentally conscious.

Closed at this time for Corporate orders for gift giving & wedding party gifts. Please do not hesitate to message me through instagram or through email to inquire about these possiblities and when they will be available.

NEW COLORS Series on view now at ALMA’S Gallery in Richmond VA. All the colors are inspired by a recent trip to Barcelona & Seville, Spain. The genius of Gaudi’s architecture combined with Seville’s vibrant colors & tile work are a direct influence with this series.

Contact Shaun