Meet Jayden Ward | Artist and Owner of Lonesome Moon Studios

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jayden Ward and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jayden, why did you pursue a creative career?
I didnt really have a choice in pursuing an artistic career- art chose me in a way. From a young age, I was always doodling instead of taking notes in class. My brain processed information more abstractly, and I actually found that I could follow lessons better when I was creating. As I grew up, I explored other career paths, but nothing ever felt quite right. Even in undergraduate school, I initially attemmpted to pursue a different field of study, but no matter how much I tried to convince myself otherwise, I always found my way back to art. Its where I feel most at home and I realized that embracing my creativity wasnt just a passion- it was a necessity.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What sets my work apart is the unique blend of ceramics and painting. I originally studied painting, but found a way to bring those skills into my ceramic work, creating pieces that feel both functional and artistic. I also incorporate my love of nature, often featuring wildlife like ducks, bears, foxes, and other animals. I believe that there is so much we can learn from the world around us- we just have to become students.

Right now, I am most excited about the future. I have so many ideas and projects I want to bring to life, and I love challenging myself by learning and incorporating new techniques into my work. In many ways, I feel like I am only just getting started.

My journey hasn’t been easy. I spent years working jobs that drained me, surrounded by toxic environments, and eventually burned out. Art saved me at my lowest point. I realized I had to build something for myself- there was no other option. That mindset pushed me forward, even though the challenges of self-doubt, low confidence, and imposter syndrome loom in the back of my mind. Those struggles haven’t disappeared, but through art, I have learned to trust myself, embrace the process, and believe that the universe has a plan for me. I’ve also learned to embrace failure. For without failure, there is no learning or growing.

At its core, my brand, Lonesome Moon Studios, is about making the everyday beautiful. It’s so easy to get caught up in negativity, but sometimes, small joys- like your favorite mug or a plate with your favorite bird- can bring light into ordinary moments. That’s what I want my work to do: add a little more joy to the everyday.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would start off the trip at Plant Magic Café to begin the day with a mushroom latte. Then I would go to Ritualcravt and the Terrarium Shop to see their amazing wildlife taxidermy for some art inspiration. Then I would drive to Elk Meadow Park for a scenic walk just outside of the city that promises elk herd viewing and amazing views along with some time in nature. Then for more art inspiration I would go to the Denver Botanical Gardens to see some vibrant plant displays. Then I would head to La Forêt for an incredible french meal with a very moody atmosphere.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’ve been lucky to have incredible support throughout my creative journey. My high school arts teacher, Mrs. Asher, was the first to truly encourage me- she was accepting, patient, supportive and always nudging her students towards growth. She is still one of my role models to this day. My professors at Point Loma University also played a huge role, challenging my stubborn self to grow both as an artist and a person. I’m especially grateful to my mom, who helped me with my very first art show in school and has supported me ever since. And finally, a big thank you to my ceramics teacher, Pearl, whose welcoming classes and passion for pottery continue to inspire me.

Website: https://lonesomemoonstudios.com

Instagram: @lonesomemoonstudios

Other: Tik Tok: @lonesomemoonstudi

Image Credits
Photos by Anna K H Photo and myself