Masala Americana

Jess Cropper-Alt is a Columbia County native with a BFA from Alfred University. Her introduction to ceramic art stems as far back as 2006 when she earned an AA at CGCC. During her time in community college, she became immersed in the bar and restaurant industry as well. Food consciousness has played a roll in her work in the past, and continues to be a driving force in her desire to create functional pottery. The use of the egg and oval shapes is a subtle commentary on commodity in food and art, while acknowledging simple elegance in form.

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Nabal T. Camacho is originally from Newburgh, NY and crossed paths with Jess at the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University. He has been creating with clay since late in his high school career in 2005, and been a part of the food service industry since 2006. Nabal’s approach to pottery is very simple but thoroughly thought through. His pottery usually is large and encourages the act of sharing food and drink. Cooking meals for others is a true intimate act and he makes vessels that invite real opportunity for sharing and experiencing a moment. 

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Food and service has always been a big part of both of their lives. From waiting tables and bartending, to working with food in retail, restaurant and communal settings, to feeding friends and family on handmade pottery, service has intertwined with our creative practice. Both have work in local eateries.  Local 111 features Jessica's ceramics for a variety of applications. The new Maker Cafe's beer tower was   Functional pottery is a conduit for the satisfaction of being served and serving others. Handmade objects add individuality and elevate the everyday shared experience of food and drink.