Meet Dopeass Ceramics

Briena of Dopeass Ceramics

Where are you from & how does that affect your work? I'm originally from Phoenix, Arizona, but I now call San Diego home. Growing up in the desert and then moving to the coast gave me a unique perspective on color and landscape. My work pulls from both the bold, vibrant colors of the Southwest and the relaxed, playful energy of Southern California. Living in San Diego has also connected me with an incredible ceramics community that has encouraged me to experiment, keep learning, and embrace creating work that doesn't take itself too seriously.

What are your biggest influences? A lot of my inspiration comes from streetwear, loud graphic design, and bold, neon color palettes. I love pieces that immediately catch your eye and have a playful confidence to them. I'm also inspired by everyday objects, vintage kitchenware, and creating functional pottery that feels fun to use. I want my work to have the same energy as your favorite outfit. Bold, colorful, and something that makes you a little giddy every time you see it. 

What is the hardest part of the creation process?

One of the hardest parts of my process is learning to repeat a design consistently as I move more toward production pottery. Most of my work has traditionally been one of a kind, and the more I've learned about ceramics, the more I realize there are endless possibilities. It can be difficult to commit to making the same design over and over when I always want to tweak something or try a new idea.

What's your favorite item that you've created, and why?

If I had to choose just one, it would be my bubble mugs. I love putting bubbles in everything! They've become the piece people recognize me for. They're playful, comfortable to hold, and somehow make an ordinary cup of coffee feel a little more fun. They perfectly represent my funky and functional brand, Dope Ass Ceramics. 

What do you love most about San Diego? The creative community. San Diego is full of artists, makers, and small business owners who genuinely support one another. Teaching pottery, selling at local markets, and being part of this incredible clay community has completely changed my life.

What is a fun fact about yourself that other may not expect? I actually spent over a decade working in the corporate world before becoming a full time ceramic artist and educator. Pottery started as a hobby, and somewhere along the way it completely changed the direction of my life.

That is just so cool! Anything special you'd like to share? One of the things I'm most passionate about is sharing what I've learned with other potters. I've invested a lot of time into workshops, classes, and continuing my education, and I love being a resource for other ceramic artists who are learning the craft.

Teaching has become one of the most rewarding parts of my career. Watching my students gain confidence, discover their own style, and create pieces they're proud of is just as exciting as making my own work.

Whether you're a fellow potter looking to learn something new or someone searching for a mug you'll reach for every morning, I'm always happy to talk clay!! 

Absolutely ADORE that. We can’t wait to see you in person this August 29th & 30th for Jackalope San Diego!

Where to see more of Dopeass Ceramics

Instagram | @Dopeassceramics