Andrew John Alspach
Sculptor and Ceramicist
Summary
With over 30 years as a ceramicist and sculptor, I have demonstrated proficiency as a functional potter and skilled sculptor in a wide variety of materials. I specialize in the use of various clay bodies and techniques to bring out the natural beauty of the materials to create functional and decorative pieces. My figurative sculpture is inspired by our natural world, and my pieces begin in oil and water-based clays with a target medium in mind, including plaster, resins, clay, and stone. I have a mastery of the materials and tools used in the creation process, including mold making and casting, with skills in the pointing method for stone carving.
Experience
Lead Creator/Founder, AJ Inspirations - Istanbul, Türkiye
2018 – Present
- Conceptualize and create original sculptural art and functional ceramic pieces.
- Market products and create compelling content across social media and web platforms.
- Manage the entire sales cycle, including client feedback, fulfillment, and international shipping logistics.
Director/Studio Manager, University of New Mexico Community Development Art Studio - Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
1994 – 1996
- Directed and managed a large craft studio and its operations, serving a membership of over 170 university and community members.
- Supervised and mentored a team of four artist residents, overseeing their contributions and studio engagement.
Various Roles (Training Coordinator, Extension Agent, Consultant), United States Peace Corps - Peru, Tunisia, & Other Locations
1989 – 2007
- Developed and delivered training programs focused on community development, small business creation, and environmental initiatives.
- Provided specialized professional development training in Art Education and Art Small Business for local partners.
- Fostered strong community relationships, engaging directly with stakeholders to assess needs and drive membership growth and engagement.
Education
MA in Geographic Information Systems and International Development, Clark University
- Taught wheel-thrown ceramics evening classes
Bachelor of Science in Geography, University of Maryland - College Park
Associate Degree - Geography, New Mexico State University
- Director of University of New Mexico Craft Studio
Projects
Project Eleven, Plein-Air Sculpting - Clay Sculpting
January 2026 - March 2027
Project Eleven: A Journey of Art, Place, and Connection
https://ajinspirations.life/project-eleven
- Project Eleven is an immersive artistic adventure blending exploration with sculpture. By engaging deeply with a city’s culture or a natural landscape, we capture the essence of "place" through walking.
- More than a studio practice, it’s a shared experience. Over months, we involve the community via live plein-air sculpting, behind-the-scenes documentation, and on-site studies. The journey ends in a gallery exhibition—a contemplative space that inspires wonder and reflection on our impact within the community and environment.
Certifications
Stone Sculpture Workshop, Martin Foot - https://www.florenceacademyofart.edu/workshops/marble-carving-in-pietrasanta/
September 2024
- Florence Academy of Art, Pietrasanta, Italy
Figurative Sculpture Workshops, David Simon - https://theromeworkshops.com/
June 2023 and 2024
- Rome Workshops, Rome, Italy
Portrait and Relief Sculpture, Eudald de Juana - https://eudalddejuana.com/workshops/
October 2024 and May 2026
- GEODE Art Space, Navata, Figueres, Spain
Portrait and Figure Sculpture, Ivan Pidhainyi - https://www.instagram.com/ivanpidhainyisculpturestudio/
June and September 2022
- Atolye Bekek, Bekek, Türkiye
Marble Sculpting, Kyle Ann Smith - https://www.marbleworkshop.com/workshop
April 2026 - January 2026
- Marble Workshop Via Piovane 20, Pietrasanta, Tuscany, Italy
Organizations
Honorable Mention, TERAVARNA 10th FIGURATIVE and 13th ANIMAL
Oct. 2025 and Feb. 2026
- International Juried Art Competition
Details
Ohio, USA+1 614 562 8891[email protected]ajinspirations.lifeSkills
Modeling
Stone pointing
Wheel-throwing
Hand-building
Slab construction
Coil building
Armature construction
Glazing
Electric kiln operation
Raku firing techniques
Mold making
Casting
Microsoft 365 suite
3D modeling software
Photography
Project Management
Studio Management
Inventory Management
Social Media Marketing
Soft Skills
Client Relations
Communications
Teaching/Mentoring