Inspired by the running waves the flowing air and the quiet earth, Lora Lomuscio creates hand-built ceramics in her studio on Shelter Island. All of her pieces are handcrafted and one of a kind.
A former high school pottery enthusiast who grew up on Shelter Island, Lora returned to her passion after earning a BA in Art History from Vassar College, and a Masters Degree in Industrial Design from Pratt Institute.
Lora began her professional life by working in architectural lighting design and also taught at Pratt and the Parsons School of Design. This work combined with a strong sense of place on Shelter Island has come together to inform and shape her work and lifetime love of art.
Lora went all in for ceramics about two years ago deciding to put all her energy into one place.
“I was getting great feedback and some press and that gave me the confidence,” Lora said in a recent conversation with the Gazette.
With so much inspiration there comes many ceramic items. Online and in her studio, you can find large and small hanging talismans and bells. Additionally, functional pieces like birdhouses, air plant hangers, large bowls, smaller plates and bowls, mugs, coffee pour over sets, special little bowls for treasures and well as sculptural pieces.
“I change it up and keep it fresh based on my current inspiration,” Lora said.
Clay Art Guild member
As a member of The Clay Art Guild of the Hamptons, Lora teaches in their studio space in Watermill, NY.
“It’s a great place to take classes”, Lora said. Working with a variety of clay bodies and firing processes, she is always learning and experimenting and enjoys making discoveries about the craft.
Her work uses a variety of glazes, pieces are fired in her electric oxidation kiln here on Shelter Island, and she also participates in Raku, a traditional Japanese method of staining and firing pottery.
Among her favorites pieces is one that was fired in the Guild’s gas kiln.
“I made a massive stoneware bowl with white slip and amazing turquoise glaze,” she said. “The gas kiln firing is a five-day process and creates really unique results. A friend on the Island purchased [the bowl] and I am happy that it lives in her home, so I can go visit.”
Ceramics can be very time-consuming, Lora said, “and you cannot rush it. When you do, you have cracks and explosions.
But it is also truly absorbing. “Getting into the flow state when working where I can relax and focus and time slips away,” she said, is one of the most appealing its aspects.
What’s next?
“I would love to have a bigger studio space where I could combine art collaborations and teach here on the Island,” Lora said.
You can find Lora’s work at the Haven’s Famers Market weekly on summer Saturdays, 9 AM to 12:30 PM, or by appointment at her studio. You can also visit her website and shop online at, loralomuscio.com.
