After being reintroduced to ceramics three years ago, Georgia artist Kate Couch found that her watercolor designs, patterns and imagery translate seamlessly onto functional, clay surfaces.
The artist: Born in Los Angeles, Couch grew up in Piedmont, CA, and Dunwoody, GA. She graduated with a BFA in art education from the University of Georgia and became a full-time artist in 2016.
In 2019, she was reintroduced to ceramics and fell hard for the medium, especially the technique called Sgraffito, where a surface is scratched or carved away to reveal what’s underneath.
The company & studio: Couch Art and Design is based in Athens. The artist is also part of the Southern Star Studio, a collective of artists and potters in Athens.
The art & materials:
– Watercolor paintings with surface designs.
– Pottery, including large detailed platters/bowls, dinnerware and lamps.
“I love how pottery allows its collectors to use it, touch it,” said Couch. “Art becomes a tactile experience with purpose.”
What’s popular: Large Sgraffito-ed platters and bowls ($65 to $300).
Other favorites: Sgraffito-ed lamps ($450 to $850).
Inspirations:
– Otomi textiles, and textiles in general.
– Pattern and surface designs in florals, animals and nature.
Fun or special commission: A wall mural of plates at a home in Fort Worth.
Where to buy:
– Watercolor paintings: campbellcollective.com
– Pottery: katecouchart.com. Also at Swan Coach House Gallery in Atlanta and Southern Star Gallery in Athens.
Get social:
– Instagram: @kate.couch
– Facebook: CouchArt
– Website: katecouchart.co
