Cara Jung
NWDC is pleased to share the art and ideas of Cara Jung. Cara’s sculptures begin as a complex vocabulary of clay parts that are molded from a variety of everyday objects like balloons, balls and simple plastic toys. Cara works intuitively to assemble sculptures together, allowing each one to establish its own voice. The rounded and bulbous clay parts become playful arrangements of contrast. The sculptures are familiar yet unknown, human and beastly, erotic and innocent. Simple surface finishes, smooth texture and muted colors are utilized to amplify form. The sculptures are intended to be ambiguous in nature, inviting viewers to form new associations and dialogue. You can learn more about Cara and her artwork here: https://cara-jung.format.com/
How were you introduced to art?
My mother was an elementary school teacher and liked making and using play-doh for us at home and in her classroom. I like to think that’s how it all started, but I really don’t know. I’ve always enjoyed making things.
Where do you find inspiration when creating new work?
I find inspiration in everyday life—just by staying open to whatever comes my way. You never really know what’s going to resonate. It could be nature, time with family and friends, a meaningful conversation, or something I’ve read. Most of the time, creating something sparks more ideas, so carving out space to do the work is really important.
What do you consider your greatest artistic achievement?
I’m really proud of what’s happening at the Whidbey Clay Center. We have an awesome community of ceramics artists, and it’s such a delight to be leading the charge there. https://whidbeyclaycenter.com/
What is the quality you most like in an artist?
The quality I most admire in an artist is curiosity—the drive to explore, to seek understanding, and to translate that journey into something tangible and expressive.
Cara Jung, Blowing Thought Bubbles, Glazed Earthenware. | Cara Jung, Planking, Glazed Earthenware.
Which living artist do you most admire?
Selecting just one artist is a difficult task; however, this weekend I was truly inspired by Patti Warashina at CCACA. Her extraordinary talent and remarkable career serve as a standard to which I can only aspire.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
My tendency to procrastinate.
What is your most treasured possession?
I'm not sure there's a single physical object I couldn't live without, but I deeply value the artwork I have that's been created by my friends. These pieces are meaningful reminders of our connections and the moments we've shared. Having their work around me not only brings beauty into my space but also keeps me feeling close to them.
Who has had a significant influence over your work?
Craig Edwards played a pivotal role not just in my development as a ceramic artist, but also in shaping my philosophy and approach to life. I’m incredibly grateful to him for taking a chance on me when he probably didn’t have to. I was in my twenties—pretty green, but deeply motivated to learn. I spent several years in Minnesota throwing production pottery for him, and during that time, he taught me so much more than just how to throw. He helped me understand that being an artist isn’t just about the work you make, but about how you live and integrate your creativity into your daily life. He showed me that living as an artist means embracing a mindset of growth, resilience, and purpose. He showed me how to find balance between creative pursuits and personal life. I was learning “piece work”, but he was actually teaching me “peace work.” It was how he described the connection between craft, intention, and a way of being. It’s something I’ve carried this with me ever since, and it continues to shape both my practice and my life.
Cara Jung, Frog Power, Glazed Earthenware. | Cara Jung, Dumbo Darling, Glazed Earthenware.
How has your studio practice changed?
My studio practice hasn't changed drastically in terms of the way I approach the work itself, but my mindset has evolved. For a period of time after grad school I was driven by a need to prove myself, to push boundaries and showcase my skill. Now, I find that my focus has shifted back towards the process rather than the end result. I have a greater desire to enjoy the journey of creation, to explore and experiment. It has become more about the joy of discovery and growth, rather than the need to meet external expectations.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
I don't know if perfect happiness is something that really exists, but I feel very lucky and grateful for where I am in life. If I had to picture it, though, I think it might be having a bit more time each day to do everything I’d like to.
