Joel Cherrico has long drawn inspiration for his pottery from Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson and his show, StarTalk Radio. Last year, we wrote about many of the reasons why, in this blog post: “Art and Science: Neil deGrasse Tyson’s Thoughts.” To avoid repeating, here is a key point:
Dr. Tyson is a man of massive influence. He wrote for The White House newsletter, appears regularly on TV Talk Shows and his work in Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey was enjoyed by millions of people. He laid the groundwork of inspiration for Joel’s creation of, “Cosmic Mugs” which you can see in this early, goofy YouTube video:
Cherrico Pottery has been supporting StarTalk Radio on Patreon for years, to draw more inspiration from the cosmos, and then filter it into art. This past January, Joel and Sienna were given an amazing opportunity: take the perfect business trip to The Big Apple (StarTalk’s headquarters in New York City) to meet Dr. Tyson and the StarTalk Radio Team.
While in NYC, they also saw a piece of artwork that was another major inspiration for Cosmic Mugs: Vincent van Gogh’s historic masterpiece The Starry Night.
StarTalk Blog
Thanks to the generous team at StarTalk, Joel was invited to publish a guest blog post titled, “Why ‘The Starry Night’ Is Universally Beautiful.” This blog reflects on several key ideas that help inspire Cosmic Mugs. These include how “Technology, Generosity and Kindness” have all helped create and sustain success for Cherrico Pottery.
Giveaway: $540 Value, 3 Winners, No Purchase Necessary
Please feel free to enter our newest giveaway, where three different people will each win one of “Our Best Cosmic Mugs.” Find all the details on how to enter by reading through Joel’s Blog on startalkradio.net, which can be found here: startalkradio.net/why-the-starry-night-is-universally-beautiful/
Dr. Tyson sipping wine from one of Joel Cherrico’s “Lunar Cups”….how cool! Photo by Justin Starr Photography
#SiennaKuhn, I look forward to following you.
My 4 years of High School I took Calligraphy, and I loved it. Your hand made paper makes it just that much more special, when sending a Note. I wish you thee very very best.
Again Congratulations to you and Joel.
Dedication and love of your art, that is what i see when i watch your educational videos. Your pottery has been a joy to own . We use it daily. Thank you for creating such wonderful pieces of useful art. I will be purchasing more in the near future!
You have shown others how to be successful at being a responsible person in achieving one’s goals.
I make collages using hand made paper plus anything from cut, folded, and pressed leaves to stones and driftwood from the beach. I learned the care and thoughtfulness of the paper making process. It makes me appreciate the medium even more than I already did.
I have always been interested in the art of making paper. Coming from a family of “booksellers” three generations deep, (Miller’s Booksellers In Atlanta). It is in my genes, I suppose, to appreciate fine writing instruments and high quality papers on which to write. My daughters have inherited the same genetic tendencies. When in Japan over many years, I was thoroughly intrigued at how many of the Japanese vested their artistic time in making papers and sewing them into books for their treasured pictures and family history. They would often scribe a line or two of poetry, reflection, or details to go with their pictures. You article has inspired me to move forward with making some prized papers and inks for my daughters and grandchildren. In these days of “electronics”, it is so very important to invest time in traditional art forms, else they will be left to perish. P.S. My wife and I are potters for the same reasons. It is in our blood.
Really nice stuff
I find it amazing that so very much work goes into paper making,it is a very personalized bit of art.I learned as a child that rags etc..were used in paper making and that is why some of the paper’s out there were originally called rag magazines
It’s amazing to see the artistry in a piece of pottery. To actually witness (what one might think is a simple mug) the creation of a piece from inception to final firing, emerging with a new form of color and purpose from the kiln. I’m in awe. Pottery has always been a statement of talent to me. Continued good luck and best wishes, Joel. You’ve been blessed with remarkable talent 🥰
I think it’s so interesting to see how all the art comes together. Very informative as well for people that want to learn how to be a potter, or make paper. Outstanding!
It is wonderful to see the hands on work you both do and your outlook on life . Your designs of the galaxy and moon are beautiful. Thank you for sharing this part of your life with all of us. Truly look forward to watching you both prosper and succeed . Thank you