Our Story
Crafting Beauty from Earth
Earthen Studio was founded in 2018 by ceramic artist Sarah Martinez, who discovered her passion for pottery during a transformative trip to Japan. Inspired by the wabi-sabi philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection, Sarah returned home to Portland and dedicated herself to mastering the ancient craft.
What started as a small home studio has grown into a thriving creative space where functional art is made daily. Every piece that leaves our studio carries the marks of human hands – slight asymmetries, organic textures, and unique glaze variations that make each item truly one-of-a-kind.
We believe in slow creation, sustainable practices, and the importance of preserving traditional pottery techniques while embracing contemporary design. Our studio is not just a place to make pottery; it's a community where people gather to learn, create, and connect with the timeless art of working with clay.
Our Values
Sustainability
We use locally-sourced clay, recycle all scraps, and power our kiln with renewable energy. Every decision considers our environmental impact.
Craftsmanship
Each piece is entirely handmade with attention to detail and quality. We never rush the process, allowing each piece the time it needs.
Education
Sharing our knowledge through workshops helps preserve pottery traditions and inspires new generations of ceramic artists.
Meet the Team
Sarah Martinez
Founder & Head Potter
With 12 years of experience, Sarah specializes in wheel-thrown functional ware and teaches beginner through advanced classes.
James Chen
Ceramics Instructor
James brings sculptural expertise to the studio, teaching hand-building techniques and advanced throwing methods.
Emma Wilson
Studio Assistant & Kids Instructor
Emma manages studio operations and brings joy to our youngest students through creative and engaging pottery classes.
Visit Our Studio
We welcome visitors during open studio hours. Watch us work, browse our gallery, or schedule a tour to see the pottery-making process firsthand.
Schedule a Visit