rayimceramics

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Visiting Jun Kaneko’s studio was an unforgettable experience, and it gave me a lot to think about regarding my own ties to Cranbrook Academy of Art. If I’m honest, I’ve always carried somewhat mixed feelings about my time in the MFA program. Being a photo guy surrounded by dedicated ceramicists made me the odd one out, and trying to develop my own work in that environment was an uphill battle.

While walking through his studio, I asked Jun how his time at Cranbrook had influenced his art. His answer was so simple and direct. He told me, “Cranbrook did nothing to my works, but it changed my lifestyle as an artist.”

We were obviously at very different points in our careers there—he was already a famous, established artist when he taught there, while I was just a student trying to figure things out. But his words really hit home. I realized that my graduate school experience did exactly the same thing for me. Cranbrook may not have been a perfectly comfortable incubator for my photo and ceramics fusion projects at the time, but the friction of being there fundamentally changed my discipline, my attitude, and how I live as a working artist today. I had the chance to go to some incredible, dedicated photography programs with perfect deals back then, but looking back, choosing to step completely out of my comfort zone was the right decision.

I’m incredibly grateful for the time he spent talking with me and my group. Seeing his space and hearing his perspective didn’t just inspire me; it helped me finally appreciate the real value of my education and attitude.