Today we’d like to introduce you to Emma Storm Sabo.
Hi Emma, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Diagnosed with severe ADHD as a young child, I struggled to find my way through life and navigate the traditional school system. Despite the many challenges that came along with my diagnosed “disability”, I learned to embrace my ADHD, using it to my advantage by honing various skills and interests. This exploration led me to dive into many art forms, including music, acting, photography, hand molding clay and whatever else caught my attention. I grew up with my maternal grandmother’s art in my home and have always been inspired by her pieces. Sadly she passed away before I was born but I always felt connected to her through her art. She was both a painter and a potter, and her legacy sparked a lifelong passion for creativity within me.
I earned my college degrees in Early Childhood Education and spent a handful of years teaching preschool and working with infants and toddlers in an educational setting. Teaching is my greatest passion because I understand the importance of recognizing that every person learns differently; unlike the one-size-fits-all approach of the traditional education system, I believe in embracing diverse learning styles for all ages.
My ceramics journey began in 2017 when I moved to San Diego and joined San Diego Ceramic Connection. I fell in love with the practice and studied everything I could under the guidance of Kouta Shimazaki, a Master Potter in San Diego. I’ve always been drawn to working and creating with my hands, I find true presence and happiness when I’m on the wheel throwing, a practice that quiets my ADHD mind like nothing else. In 2021, I was attending night school for cosmetology and barbering, and working six days a week at a job that made me deeply unhappy. After an especially challenging day, I quit without a plan, savings, or direction. Within a few days, a friend sent me an Instagram post about a ceramics studio in Leucadia looking to hire an instructor. Though I had never taught pottery, I thought, “If I can teach preschool, I can teach pottery.” Armed with nothing but a few years of practice and a collection of photos of my work, I got hired and began my journey as an instructor teaching at Clay + Craft.
After about 9 months working at Clay + Craft, I was presented with the opportunity to take over the lease and open my own studio, and The Mudd House was born. As the creator behind The Mudd House, I am dedicated to providing a safe space where community comes together, celebrating the art of ceramics as a means of connection with ancestral roots, the earth, and the joys of childlike play and sensory therapy.
My artistic journey is deeply rooted in my heritage, drawing inspiration from the traditions and techniques passed down through generations. Through my work, I seek to evoke a sense of nostalgia for simpler times, when the earth provided both sustenance and inspiration. Each piece I create is a testament to the timeless beauty and resilience of these practices.
I am honored to have received the 2023 San Diego Best award, which recognizes excellence in the arts, and to have been nominated for Who’s Who in America 2024, a testament to the impact of my work in the field of ceramics. These accolades serve as motivation to continue pushing the boundaries of my craft, always striving for innovation while staying true to the timeless traditions that inspire me.
At The Mudd House, I invite others to join me in this exploration of our shared history and the healing power of clay. Through workshops and classes, I aim to foster a community that values creativity, mindfulness, and the therapeutic nature of working with our hands.
Join me at The Mudd House, where we celebrate the beauty of the past, the gift of presence and community, the richness of the earth, and the joy of creating with an open heart and a playful spirit.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The biggest challenges we’ve faced at The Mudd House have been dealing with two separate floods in January 2023 and January 2024. Both incidents forced us to temporarily close our doors and initiate fundraising efforts to reopen. Despite these setbacks, the support from our community has been incredible, allowing us to overcome these obstacles and continue sharing the joy of ceramics with others.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I create functional art and dinnerware, with a special focus on cafe sets. My work includes mugs, creamers, plates and bowls and most noted, unique checkered mugs, which are featured at Hinar Cafe. Currently, I’m collaborating with a few local restaurants in North County on new projects, so keep an eye out for those! In addition to functional pieces, I’m known for my non-traditional ceramic creations that incorporate chains and spikes, adding my unique touch to the art form.
I am most proud of the incredible team at The Mudd House and the vibrant community we’ve built together. The sense of connection and camaraderie within our studio is truly special. Our members and team have created a supportive, inspiring environment where creativity flourishes.
What sets The Mudd House apart from other studios is our dedication to fostering community and connection. We are not just a ceramics studio; we are a home away from home for our members. Our studio is a place where close relationships are formed, and a true sense of family is nurtured. We pride ourselves on creating a welcoming and supportive environment where everyone feels at home. We’re more than just a Mudd House; we’re a Mudd Home.
What matters most to you? Why?
What matters most to me is the vibrant community and close-knit family we’ve built here at The Mudd House. Each day, being part of people’s journey as they learn a new craft fills me with immense reward and joy. It’s truly special to witness the growth and creativity of our members, fostering connections that go beyond pottery—it’s about creating a supportive environment where everyone can flourish together.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.themuddhousestudio.com/
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/themuddhouse
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/themuddhouse
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-sabo-5640932b5/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@themuddhouse
Image Credits
Images by Joanne Barratt, Bo McKinley and Daniel Pop
