Local Artist Series // Jack Staley

Who are you and what do you create?
My name is Jack Staley, and live and work in the Noosa area. I’m a picture framer and create abstract ceramic sculptures and functional vessels.

What materials and techniques do you use?
My primary working material is clay, but I have been experimenting with raw material and oxides to make my own glazes. My practice incorporates a range of methods, from throwing to hand building — joining these combinations slowly together to form something unique and ambiguous.

What kind of inspirations go into your work?
I think my inspiration comes from most things I see and experience in everyday life. It’s a personal and therapeutic journey for me. I love nature, and the ocean has been a huge part of my life, and a core inspiration. Music, literature and cooking has also influenced me heaps. I find it all intriguing, and it allows me to make something different with my work. 

In what space do you like to create most?
I work mostly from my studio in Sunshine Beach. I like hearing the ocean and zoning out while listing to music. I like to create alone and not have many distractions whilst I’m in the making process. 

What has been your favourite or most important work to date?
My favourite, or most important finished piece, is probably called, ‘Light house’. It reminds me of Double Island point — a special place I loved visiting growing up — and was a finalist in the North Queensland Ceramic Awards, 2020.  

To see more of Jack’s work, head across to his Instagram.