A trained architect, Linnan Ye's ceramic work reflects an appreciation for form, coordinating palettes and contrasting patterns. We love the earthy glazes that create mix and match possibility across vases, bowls, plates, tea cups and mugs.
8 Questions
Describe the moment you realized art fed your soul.
When I felt the sincerity others pour into their creations. I saw how people use art to express their unique life experiences with such honesty, and it resonated with me. It was as if a new door opened, revealing the power of art to connect us as human beings, each with our own stories to tell.
Nothing can be more interesting than understanding another human.
What themes do you pursue in your art/what influences the direction for your craft?
As a typical Gemini, I embrace duality in my art, working with both pottery and
illustrations. Though they may look very different, both forms are expressions of my true self.
Living in the States has made me more aware of how deeply Eastern and Asian
culture and aesthetics are ingrained in my being. My favorite painters— Bada Shanren（八大山人), Sanyu（常玉), and Yoshitomo Nara— convey deep emotion through their simple lines and shapes, which resonates with me profoundly.
My favorite ceramist is Taizo Kuroda, known for his white porcelain cylinders. I remember him describing how he would create this cylinder form over and over, and in the end, it’s just a cylinder. I feel I understand that, it’s hard to describe, but it’s important!
How has your work developed over time?
To be honest, it’s just about time and living in the moment, I associate it to Taizo
Kuroda’s cylinder, you are always seeking for something, you almost want it to be
perfect but actually not really, you don’t want to be perfect, you want to be yourself.
What’s the most indispensable item in your studio?
I’m still in a shared studio situation. San Francisco is too expensive, I don’t really own any physical assets there, other than friendship and the support I have.
Do you collect anything?
When I have my own space I will have a corner to display my collections.
What’s the most inspiring thing you’ve seen, read, watched or listened to
recently?
I’ve recently developed a fascination with Gachapon, those Japanese vending
machines that dispense capsule toys. I’m particularly drawn to the quirky and
unconventional designs. My favorite brand is Panda’s Ana. I’m excited about my upcoming trip to Japan, where I plan to look out for the 'Shakurel Planet' series. It’s amazing how people come up with such inventive and humorous ideas— it’s truly
inspiring and fun!
What advice would you give to your younger self about your artistic journey?
Only thing I want to say is “relax”.
Bonus Question:
What role does music play for you while you work?
Music plays an important role in setting the mood and groove I need for
different tasks. Recently, I’ve been enjoying YIN YIN, a Dutch band with sounds reminiscent of Southeast Asia and Japan, and Nujabes while I’m working on pottery. For drawing, I often listen to city pop, which adds vibrant colors to my creative process.
Linnan's ceramic collection has both an earthy aesthetic that can complement every decor and a hand feel that is sublime. Explore her artwork collection, Neko Co Neko, on our website here.
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
hello@poetandthebench.com | 415.569.4383 | 11 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941