Brief Bio

 

​Lee Ustinich (that's me) is a clay artist and the owner of LeeUCeramics, in the Lakes Region of central New Hampshire.  I began making art while growing up in New Jersey.  I moved to NYC after high school, enjoying the great museums and the vibrant art scene of the '60's. Later, I earned a BFA from the School of the Arts, Virginia Commonwealth University, majoring in ceramics/materials.

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Instead of pursuing a career in art, I earned a Master's degree in allied health and worked professionally in addiction treatment. After moving to New Hampshire, I served as a State Planner for the Bureau of Behavioral Health until I retired. Once I left public service, I reativated my interest for working in clay.  

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​I use commercial clay bodies and glazes, primarily firing at cone 6 in an oxidation (electric) atmosphere. When the opportunity presents, I enjoy cone 10 reduction (wood) firing. ​My ceramics are organically designed to be sculptural, functional, and distinctive, for home and office use.

 

Artist Statement

WYSIWYG-It’s Intentional

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I embrace ceramic materials and the results of the firing "as is", often accepting natural flaws and technical imperfections, when it suits my purpose. Themes of struggle and determination, honoring the process of survival and resilience, often infuses my work.  This approach may challenge traditional expectations of symmetry and refinement in ceramics, and leverages the attributes of serendipity.