Nicole Aquillano

"Fascinated by the potential of place to define and connect us, I draw subtle narratives on functional work to elicit memories of past experiences. I create a story you can hold in your hand forever."

Architectural imagery drawn from the artist's photographic collection—inlaid with intense attention to detail—prompts display of her work when not in use and becomes a meaningful addition to any collection. Aquillano is particularly interested in the need to maintain collections, as a way to preserve the past and satisfy the longing with which we inhabit the world.

Aquillano draws each image directly into the porcelain clay with a knife, then inlays a dark underglaze. The high temperature of the kiln combined with a clear glaze overlay slightly blurs the drawing, much like a faded memory. Aquillano is personally influenced by a nostalgia for her childhood home and often references imagery from her past as a way to establish a personal connection.

Aquillano took an unconventional path to become a studio potter. After pursuing a career in civil engineering, she left it to follow her passion, earning an MFA in ceramics from Rhode Island School of Design in 2012. After graduation, she set up her studio in the Fort Point Area of Boston, where she has the opportunity to both live and work along with her husband, Sam, and cat, Luna.