The Architect’s Wife has always been focused internally on showcasing our showroom space and the artists, creators, or makers within it. But given the current circumstances, we’re learning to shift our focus and connect with people in new ways. More importantly, we want to shine a light on craftspeople and the creativity they contribute to our community. In this series dubbed “Stoop Stories”, The Architect’s Wife visits friends and makers to share how they’re staying in/spired.
Let us introduce you to Patrick Hoffman–Montana ceramic artist, educator, and designer. Patrick’s works and curated pieces are in homes, hotels, and companies across the US. Patrick’s workshop is very much an open, welcoming communal space kitted out with skateboards, a friendly horse-like pup, and a hand built wood kiln at the base of the Story Hills. We hope sharing Patrick’s space along with his intersection of design, fabrication, and ceramic arts generates some curiosity.
Tell us what you do. How did you fall into your craft?
I am a ceramic artist that has taken a liking to a wider range of creative endeavors. My first experience with clay at the young age of 15 set me on a path to explore craftsmanship and art making. I have and always will consider clay to be my primary medium for expression of ideas and my craft. However, I find a fascination with wood, and steel. I like to take on projects that challenge my understanding of materials. There are many examples of working in the field of design, and this is another skill set I will continue to nurture. Especially if it means I get to collaborate with other creatives, photographers, and designers to tackle large projects. Ceramics is a field that encourages collaboration, and this has spilled over into other mediums for me as well.
What was your first ever job?
My first job at 14 years of age was silk screen printing! I worked on a six color press, learning how to print designs on shirts for a local sports supply store. I still credit that experience with pushing me towards making and creating. My second job shortly thereafter was in a bike shop, I couldn’t quit that for 10 more years!
What does an average routine day look like for you?
My days are chock full. I teach ceramics and design among many other art related subjects for the past 15 years at Bozeman High School. Prior to establishing Hoffman Artworks in 2015, I would keep engaged in a plethora of art projects in the Bozeman valley, regionally and beyond outside of of my school day.
Once I formally established my small business endeavor, I would teach throughout the school year and selectively engage in projects large and small. In the summers I typically work on one to two large projects, and continually work on smaller projects as time allows.
A day looks like: A full time job and then studio time in the evenings. I also can’t go without mountain time; which could mean bikes, climbing, snowboarding, and hunting. Every day includes my kids, my wife, etc… There’s not a lot of room for a Netflix series or downtime.
What have you been up to during quarantine?
I have been wrapping my head around remote teaching and learning. I started some small furniture projects. I have a backlog of ceramics work to complete. I have one large project right now that has consumed most of my creative time doing a large design layout project for a client. Once that is complete, I am jumping headfirst into some large wall sculpture projects for the summer.
What’s something one might not know about you?
Active community member, Bridger Bowl Board of Directors, juggler of many hats…
What’s something you’ve been working on your excited about?
I am excited about these small bedside tables I have been welding. I have a ton of excitement to start another large sculpture project.
Anything else you’d like to share?
The Architect’s Wife is focused on sharing togetherness, inspired spaces, and warmth in any capacity we can generate it. Here we shine a light on craftspeople and the creativity they contribute to our community.