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Ceramic soul
collective

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Our Story

​The Ceramic Soul Collective is comprised of students who have completed at least a full year of Ceramics at The Bottom workshops and have demonstrated a commitment to seeing the program grow. 

 

The core pillars of The Bottom, community, culture & creativity, are central to this collective. Ceramic Soul is a therapeutic “third place” –- a much needed space to gather, make & just be together.

 

Founded by Ty Murray, Director of Art at The Bottom, with the support of instructors Maggie Connolly and Jeremy Myles, this collective is fueled by the passion & dedication of each member. Members include: Maggie Connolly, Jazzmine Curtis, Fitrah Hamid Golden, George Habeib, Alex Kellam, Natori Mason, Mumbi Muraguri, Ty Murray, Jeremy Myles, Eric Sherwood & Kip Walker.

Fostering the Next Generation of Black Appalachian Ceramic Craft Culture

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Support Our Work!

The Bottom is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit made possible by the power of passionate people, charitable donations & mutual aid. Support is always needed

to continue projects like this one and to continue curating beloved community space.

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Here are some ways you can support!

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  • In-person donations at 2340 Magnolia Ave. Knoxville, TN 37917:

    • We accept cash, checks & Venmo.

    • Materials & supplies are accepted only upon prior approval.

    • Checks can also be mailed to the address listed above.

  • Online Donations:

    • Send gifts through our giving platforms, please include "Ceramic Soul" in the subject line.

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Meet The
Members

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Jazzmine Curtis, Jazzmine Ocha Art

I am a Black ceramicist based in Knoxville, TN, whose work reinterprets, challenges, and honors historical narratives through clay. Rather than following a traditional academic path, my artistry has flourished within a community-led framework, where shared knowledge, collaboration, and mutual growth have been integral to my evolution as an artist.  Rooted in African and Diasporic heritage, my practice is profoundly influenced by Hoodoo, an African Diasporic religion that shapes my creative process and connection to ancestry. By drawing inspiration from the textures and colors of West African textiles and blending hand-building with wheel-throwing techniques, each piece serves as a vessel for reclaiming and celebrating UNWRITTEN histories, transforming clay into a medium of cultural expression and historical dialogue. My journey with The Bottom’s Ceramic Soul Collective has profoundly shaped my growth as both an artist and a community member. Being part of this collective has provided me with the guidance and support needed to navigate the complexities of the art world while granting me access to opportunities I never knew existed. The Bottom has shown me that art and community are not just avenues for personal expression but essential elements that provide answers and connections to so many facets of life. This space has expanded my vision, reinforced my belief in the power of shared creation, and demonstrated how art can be a force for change, healing, and empowerment.

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Fitrah Hamid Golden

I am an artist focused on ceramics and costume play based in East Tennessee, USA. I joined the ceramics program at The Bottom on a lark. I had no real goals or expectations. I learned and gained more than I could have ever imagined: a Third Place, a coping skill for my mental health, community, and a hobby that I hope to eventually profit from. The Ceramic Soul Collective is invaluable to me.

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Natori Mason

Instagram: @heart.of.saturn

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I am a multimedia creative based in Knoxville, TN. Much of my work is an extension of my self expression through themes of identity, color, and unique style. Making art grounds me and helps me translate my love and appreciation for life, relationships with others, and the natural world. When it comes to my ceramic craft, I am heavily inspired by sentimental items and the importance of daily rituals. I create functional pieces with engaging designs that elicit feelings of joy and focus on the present moment, each serving as a love letter to oneself. I am grateful to The Bottom for creating an accessible ceramics program. If not for them, I most likely would have never gotten into the craft. Getting to learn a new skill and spend time in community has been rewarding in so many ways. Joining the Ceramic Soul Collective has motivated me to create more in all mediums. I look forward to learning more, progressing in my craft, and continuing to build meaningful relationships through art.

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Ty Murray, Ty's Eye

Instagram: @tys_eye

Website

My approach to creation is a dance between artistry and activism. I take great interest in simultaneously celebrating and analyzing African American culture and identities; in exploring the rhythms and movements of Blackness. As a modern day Renaissance woman rooted in the Appalachian South, my art reflects who I am, where I’m from and what I aspire to see in the world. Through ceramics, performance, photography and a combination of mediums, I choose to create art that challenges, that confronts, that is loud, bold, colorful and soulful. The Bottom is an ultimate 'third space' filled with intentionality and care, our ceramics program is no different. The space lives and breathes through the mission of celebrating culture, engaging creativity and building community. I've been empowered, affirmed & inspired to develop an artistic voice and storytelling narrative through clay. Ceramics at The Bottom has truly been an essential & therapeutic outlet for me.

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Jeremy Myles, IAmStoryH

Instagram: @iamstoryh

Art Instagram: @storyh_art

Website

Continuing my goal of working as a full time artist, spreading knowledge and the joy of creating to others, while learning and growing from those I teach. Refining my own art, and exploring new techniques to better under and deepen my connection to my art. Every experience is a learning experience for me. I teach because in teaching I have found I get to learn and grow through observation. That observation has allowed me to better pinpoint mistakes that can lead to opportunities for growth. This program has provided a community, of people looking to learn and grow together.

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Kifeney Walker, MizKip

Instagram: @mizkip

I believe in the power of art to bridge experiences, celebrate diversity, and inspire new perspectives. This program has been a true lifesaver for me. It’s given me the chance to connect with people in a natural and meaningful way, which has been incredibly refreshing. I've always longed to be in a space with others who understand the arts and genuinely appreciate the time and effort that goes into creating our masterpieces.

Upcoming
Events

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Past
Events

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