Exclusive Interview with New Orleans Ceramicist Aurora Daigle

Aurora Daigle, born and raised in the enchanting city of New Orleans, is an interdisciplinary artist whose work captivates the essence of her vibrant upbringing. A graduate of the San Francisco Art Institute with a Bachelor’s in Fine Art, majoring in sculpture, and a Master’s degree in Creative Art Therapy from Pratt Institute, Aurora’s journey into artistry is both profound and inspiring. Her practice, which incorporates natural and found materials along with various printmaking and painting techniques such as relief on wood or linoleum, silkscreen, and acrylics, aims to restore and cultivate relationships with the self, others, and the earth.

In this exclusive interview, Aurora delves into her childhood experiences, the powerful influence of her family matriarchs, and how the rich culture and history of New Orleans continue to inspire her work as a ceramicist and artist.

Can you share details about your childhood, family, and the environment you grew up in? Were you an artistic child?

I am the youngest and only girl in my family, raised by an incredible mother who single-handedly nurtured my three older brothers and me. She instilled in me a deep sense of freedom to express myself fully, and her boundless love and vibrant spirit continue to inspire me. Growing up in New Orleans, Louisiana, immersed me in a world of enchantment and mystique. The magic and spirits in its swamps captured my imagination early on. New Orleans is undeniably filled with creative expression, bursting with colors, sounds, charisma, and romance.

From a young age, I possessed an active imagination and a love for dance. I vividly remember writing letters to fairies who I believed dwelled around our home. Whether dancing barefoot under ancient live oaks, on broken sidewalks, or in the aisles of the Winn-Dixie grocery store, I inhabited every space with a sense of fluidity and artistry. Movement became my language, reflecting the softness and grace I absorbed from my surroundings and experiences.

What inspired your journey into becoming an artist?

My journey into artistry was deeply influenced by the women in my family—the matriarchs. My grandmother, my mother, and her sister were true artists in every sense. They infused beauty and meaning into everything they touched, whether it was through celebrations, food, quilts, or a simple conversation. Their care for each other and their families was an art form in itself, and it ignited my own artistic spark.

The power and beauty of Mother Nature have always captivated me. From wild tropical weather to lush flora and fauna and the rhythmic movements of bodies of water, I find inspiration in the intricate dance of life. I feel a profound connection to the natural world and strive for a reciprocal relationship with it through my work. Additionally, I’ve always been fascinated by the rituals, customs, and ceremonies that shape people’s lives and connect them to their communities, plants, animals, and the earth itself. These elements form the foundational inspiration for my artistic expression.

New Orleans is a city rich in culture and history. How does your upbringing in New Orleans influence your work as an artist and ceramicist?

New Orleans, a city steeped in rich culture and history, has profoundly shaped my journey as an artist and ceramicist. Growing up amidst its vibrant tapestry of diverse influences—from the echoes of ancient practices to the resilience of its people—I found myself drawn to the beauty found in imperfection and the depths of emotion.

The city’s complex history, like a patchwork quilt woven from the threads of diverse cultural legacies, inspired in me a deep curiosity about animism and reverence for ancient traditions. The palpable remnants of the old world around every corner fueled my fascination with sacred practices and the stories of those who lived in harmony with their environment, as well as those who boldly resisted and liberated.

My artistic expression often revolves around themes of rebirth, world-building, and the sacred feminine—a tribute to the resilience and wisdom that New Orleans embodies. Just as water holds memory, my connection to the winding river that cradled me remains intrinsic to my work. Creating vessels that hold water or letting water hold me is a continual homage to this connection.

Growing up in New Orleans also instilled in me an awareness of the potent influence of figures like voodoo priestesses—women who wielded knowledge, wisdom, and the power of herbs and word spells. Their legacy resonates in my art, where each piece becomes a portal to a world both ancient and newly imagined—a sanctuary where the denigrated artifacts of feminine power are honored and restored.

I was told by a friend recently that they can see expressions of New Orleans in my ceramic pieces in the colors, textures, tones, and shapes, the subtleties, and the details. I think that is unavoidable due to how much I’m endlessly in awe of the beauty that exists in this big little city.

In essence, my art is an ongoing narrative of homage and creation. New Orleans continues to be my muse and my guide in this journey of artistic exploration and discovery.

Reflecting on your art career, can you pinpoint any significant events that greatly influenced your artistic development?

In my twenties, I lived in the Bay Area and attended one of the oldest art schools on the West Coast, nestled in the vibrant city of San Francisco. This period was pivotal for my artistic growth. I discovered firsthand the profound impact of art on human existence and began to understand its critical role in our survival.

During this time, I encountered artists whose work resonated deeply with me and expanded my artistic horizons. Icons like Ana Mendieta, Wangechi Mutu, Simone Leigh, and Kara Walker not only fascinated me but also challenged and inspired me to explore new depths in my own creative journey. Their contributions left an indelible mark on my artistic perspective and continue to influence my work to this day.

How do you generate innovative ideas for your art?

I spend time alone. I observe and I listen.

As an artist, what challenges have you faced and overcome in your creative journey?

I have grappled with significant self-doubt, questioning whether I deserved a place in the art world and whether I had the capability to succeed. Logistically, finding dedicated space and time for my artistic practice has been an ongoing struggle. Balancing the demands of life with prioritizing my talent and desire for self-expression has been a challenge. However, as I’ve matured, I’ve come to realize that art is not just a passion but a vital tool for my survival, healing, and personal growth. This understanding has empowered me to confront these challenges head-on and continue to evolve as an artist.

Part 2 is Coming Soon!

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Exclusive Interview with New Orleans Ceramicist Aurora Daigle | Part 1

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