Red Lodge Clay Center – Short-Term Resident 2025
Jinhua Yang received her BFA, concentrating in ceramics and graphic design, at East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina. She has a deep interest in wild clay and atmospheric firings. Drawing inspiration from the natural landscape and the material, her work explores the raw aspects of clay and its interaction with atmospheric firings. During her studies at ECU, she focused on refining wild clay as both a clay body and glaze material. Her passion for material exploration has led her to work with various firing methods, including wood, soda, and salt firing, to bring out the unique characteristics of each piece.
Clay is a material of transformation—shaped by hands, fire, and time. My work explores the raw qualities of clay and its interaction with atmospheric firings. Without traditional glazes, flame and ash leave unpredictable, organic marks, highlighting the natural beauty of the clay. Discovering and experimenting with clay fuels my creativity and deepens my connection to my work and firing process. I honor this relationship by melding material, process, and form pieces that embody control, spontaneity, tradition, and innovation.