Rising Stars: Meet Lisa Arp of Wheat Ridge

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa Arp.

Hi Lisa, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I first discovered pottery back in high school and instantly fell in love with the art form. I’ve had my own wheel for over a decade, but for many years I didn’t have much space to create, and I didn’t own a kiln to fire my pieces. In 2023, my husband and I built a detached garage and dedicated half of it to my new studio space, complete with an electric kiln.

At first, it was simply a way to continue enjoying pottery as a hobby. But after several months of creating, I had accumulated quite a collection and decided to apply for a local show to sell a few pieces. To my surprise, there was a real market for my work.

After 18 months of participating in markets, I realized how well my pottery business was doing, even with only part-time effort. That’s when I made the leap to pursue it full-time. In May, I left my office job and officially began this new adventure of creating and selling pottery full-time.

Today, my work is featured in two shops in Colorado, and I’m so grateful to be building a growing local following.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
One of my biggest challenges has been keeping up with production. When I first started selling, I eagerly signed up for more markets than I realistically had time to prepare for. I quickly learned that creating enough inventory between events while maintaining the quality and craftsmanship I value was not sustainable. I had to step back, adjust my expectations, and find a better balance between the number of shows I attended and the time I needed in the studio to create pieces I was proud of.

Another ongoing challenge has been finding the right markets, ones with an audience that truly appreciates handmade pottery and connects with my style of work. It has taken some trial and error to discover which events draw the kind of crowd that values the time and artistry behind each piece.

I have also had to navigate the balance between creativity and practicality. Some of my favorite designs are intricate and time intensive, but when producing for markets, I often have to focus on simpler pieces that can be sold at a more accessible price point. Finding that middle ground, where creativity, efficiency, and affordability meet, has been one of the hardest parts of growing my business but also one of the most rewarding.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a ceramic artist and the creator behind The Pottery Bunker, where I make small-batch, functional pottery that is designed to be both beautiful and practical for everyday life. I specialize in wheel-thrown pieces that blend earthy, organic textures with clean, modern forms. Each piece is made by hand in my home studio, and no two are ever exactly alike.

I’m known for creating pottery that feels warm and approachable, pieces that people actually use and love, whether it’s a favorite mug, a dinner set, or a centerpiece that anchors a table. I take pride in the details, from the way a handle fits comfortably in your hand to the glaze combinations that make each piece unique.

One thing that sets me apart is the personal connection I build with my customers. Every piece I make is truly from my hands to yours, and I think people feel that when they pick it up.

What I’m most proud of is taking this dream full time. After years of treating pottery as a hobby, I took the leap to leave my office job and pursue my art full time. It has been both challenging and deeply rewarding, and I’m proud to have built something that connects creativity, community, and everyday function in such a meaningful way.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was always creative and drawn to the arts. I loved expressing myself through different mediums, whether it was painting, crafting, or later, photography, which I eventually went to school for. I did well in school and enjoyed learning, but I was also known for my sense of humor and quick wit. I’ve always had a bit of a sarcastic streak and loved making people laugh.

I enjoyed being around others and wasn’t afraid to be the center of attention when the moment called for it. Looking back, I think that mix of creativity, confidence, and humor has carried over into my work today. It helps me connect with people at markets and bring a sense of personality and joy into everything I create.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.thepotterybunker.com/
• Instagram: @thepotterybunker