

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jason Pastorello.
Jason, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I started out as a photo major but was far more interested in ceramics by the end of college. One of my professors suggested continuing my journey in clay over at Harvard’s ceramic program. After a few years of classes, odd jobs, and personal experience I went on to teach at MIT/SAA while also constructing my own studio. As of today, I still teach at MIT and produce work out of my basement studio, selling pieces to private collectors throughout the country.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Hahahaaa, no, it was definitely rocky… if it wasn’t for my life long friends and family I would not be where I am today. I was a deluded photo major with no business skills so, as you can imagine, multitudes of rookie mistakes were made. Estimates on time and costs were always way off to say the least. I also thought that a 40-hr. work week would suffice in allowing for a successful business to take shape. After getting a solid taste of humility, I realized my decision making needed to change. Put in real work, get educated, stay humble, keep grinding.
Please tell us about Jay Pastorello Ceramics.
I am a ceramic artist. I make functional and decorative pottery along with some conceptual work that is always the catalyst for conversations. I am extremely proud of the work that I do. As a teacher, I take pride in being an educational resource, as an art maker, providing food for thought along with constructing quality product that is the result of my total concentration fills me with a unrivaled sense of satisfaction. Self expression is what sets me apart as it is what sets us all apart.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
With everything that I know now… a lot (insert laughing emoji here).
Here’s the tip of the iceberg: work harder, worry less, keep better notes, spend money wisely, drink less, follow through every time, stay humble.
Contact Info:
- Address: 216 Pearl St. Apt# 2 Cambridge, MA 02139
- Website: www.jaypastorelloceramics.com
- Email: jaypastorello@gmail.com
- Instagram: jaypastorello
Image Credit:
MIT/SAA, Jay pastorello
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