We recently had the chance to connect with Lauren Cressman and have shared our conversation below.
Lauren, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
Monday through Friday, I work as a high school ceramics teacher at Wasatch High School in Heber, Utah. My day typically begins at 6:30 a.m. as I prepare for and commute to work. Most days, I teach four classes, including Pottery, Advanced Pottery, and AP 3D Art, where I guide students through their creative processes and individual projects. Before and after school, I dedicate additional time to maintaining the studio—cleaning, recycling clay, and loading kilns.
By the time I return home around 4:00 p.m., I’ve often already walked nearly 9,000 steps in the classroom. Evenings are spent balancing personal time and creativity: caring for my dog, preparing dinner for my husband as he works toward his Ph.D., and creating my own artwork. My couch serves as my home studio and sanctuary, where I glaze, sculpt, and paint while enjoying shows like The X-Files.
Though my days are full, I find great fulfillment in both teaching and creating. Helping students discover their artistic voices and then winding down with my own art brings me a deep sense of balance and peace.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am an educator most of the time, but an artist at heart. I started Cressman Ceramics as a way to create things that people can truly love—pieces that feel good in your hands, bring comfort to your home, and quietly become part of your daily rituals. Whether it’s your favorite mug for morning coffee or a ramen bowl, I want every piece to be beautiful, functional, and made to be used.
My work is inspired by nature and Greek mythology—two endless sources of beauty, story, and symbolism. I’m drawn to soft, organic forms, earthy textures, and timeless shapes that feel like they could belong to both the past and present. Sometimes, a piece might echo a mythological figure or natural element, but it’s always subtle and intuitive—more about feeling than telling.
Everything I make is crafted by hand in small batches, and I love that no two pieces ever turn out the same. At its core, Cressman Ceramics is about slowing down and enjoying the small things.
Currently, my favorite things to make are whistles and tea sets. I love playing around with different whimsical ideas and pushing my personal limits.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
As a child, I loved getting messy, playing in the mud, and exploring the unknown. Over time, I’ve noticed that play often becomes diminished or pushed aside in adulthood, yet I believe it remains deeply important. In much of my work, I enjoy experimenting with new techniques, creating miniature pieces, and expressing whimsical ideas. As an adult, however, I often find it more difficult to take creative risks due to the pressure and anxiety surrounding potential failure. I frequently long for the fearless curiosity of childhood when I could freely explore, experiment, and embrace failure as part of the creative process.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
You are far more capable and extraordinary than you often give yourself credit for. Take a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come and recognize the quiet strength that’s carried you through challenges. Focus your energy on the things that bring you peace, love, and genuine joy, the people, passions, and moments that make life meaningful.
Keep your family close and cherish their presence, but never lose sight of who you are as an individual. Stay true to yourself, even when others try to define your worth through their own expectations or opinions. Your authenticity is your greatest strength. Protect it and let it shine.
Make your art a daily practice, not just as a skill, but as a way to express your heart and connect with the world. Trust your creative instincts and believe in your ability to grow, learn, and inspire.
Remember that progress is not a straight line. There will be setbacks and failures along the way, but each one is a lesson that shapes you into a stronger, wiser version of yourself. Keep pushing forward, no matter how slow the progress may feel at times.
Most importantly, never give up. You have everything within you to create a life that reflects who you truly are, built on love, persistence, and the courage to keep going.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
I believe my closest friends would say that my teaching and students are what I care most about. I constantly talk about my students and the amazing work they are doing. I also hope they would know how important caring for others is to me. I believe that everyone deserves to feel loved and accepted.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope that I am remembered as a teacher and how I made an impact in someone’s life or taught them something that they will continue to remember.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cressmanceramics.com
- Instagram: @cressmanceramics
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-cressman-ba61ab68
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laurensoupfineart
