In these uncertain times, it's especially heartening to celebrate a friend whose creativity radiates such light and warmth. Meet Eunbi Cho, an LA based ceramicist known for her playful designs that marry traditional functionality and modern versatility. Her technical eye and attention to detail bring a unique aesthetic to each piece, making everyday objects feel both imaginative and functional. Step inside Eunbi’s studio to explore her process, inspirations, and the artistry behind her work.

Growing up, I was certain I wanted to be involved in fashion. After stepping into it briefly though, I realized it wasn't what I wanted to pursue. My parents were very traditional and wanted me to settle down quickly, rather than search for a career. I was still young, so I decided to move to the US to explore my career options away from their influence. The gap between expectation and reality made me want to explore various interests. After a few odd jobs, I met an acquaintance who knew someone looking for assistance in a ceramic studio. I went in for a quick interview and started working the same day. Compared to office jobs or environments with overwhelming amounts of people, I loved spending my days creating things on my own while listening to music. I never thought I could make a living this way. After two years, I found that I truly enjoyed the process and had the courage of youth and just enough knowledge to start my own practice.

I remember not having much choice because my parents would make most choices for me. It wasn't until high school that I took some interest in design. When I started to notice design, most of the things around me were things I owned from childhood, so I think that made me grow a little love for nicely made things.

I would say thoughtfully created ceramics? I started my practice when I felt the loneliness in the US lifestyle. So a lot of things are made to spend time with. When you see my work, I want you to touch (with care) and experience my work as much as you can.

My daily rituals are riding my bicycle four times a week and/or stretching, eating breakfast, and making myself a drink (a matcha latte these days). I start with emails or any other computer task, and shortly after, I start working. I am an anxious person, so I really enjoy sticking to a routine. But over the years, I've learned that some flexibility is crucial. Some days aren't good to be stubborn about my routine, so instead of being overwhelmed about breaking promises to myself, I have a compensating stretch to start my day.

In the studio, to set the tone, refresh, change the mood, and more, yes I mostly use music. I usually have a playlist, but quite often if I find a song or album I like, I tend to listen to it over and over. It was the Polo & Pan Caravelle album for a while, but I'm just learning about Chapelle Roan and I like her.

There is the big earth world, and there is my little world. There are lots of things going on in the big world, but I majorly exist and get affected by my surroundings. When I was living in Korea, I didn't really recognize the community I existed in for 25 years. Because it was there all the time, I felt the absence of it when I moved to LA. You don't know when you are part of it because it provides comfort. But once you get out of it, you suddenly realize its absence. Community always amazes you with some kindness to unexpected support.

I have been turning to books, mostly classic fiction. Momo, Rendezvous with Rama, and Italo Calvino's books (other than Invisible Cities). I'm also very open to suggestions.

I definitely like to do something in nature: boogie boarding, walking, or hiking. Or riding a bicycle or doing nothing being like a plastic bag.

* coffee shop - I have been trying to stay away from coffee, but I like the Hojicha latte from Mandarin Coffee in Pasadena.

* place to ride your bike - I mostly ride a routine route these days, but I like the LA River bicycle route, and (although it's not a route) I like riding at CicLAvia.

* Instagram account - @naraaziza. I cannot stop watching that gorgeous, stylish lady make anything from scratch, while talking with her soothing voice.

I think having no next for me is the next for me haha! I want to be more like water and be able to flow around, instead of being fixed with an idea or the thing that got away.

To see what's in store for Eunbi, follow along at @eunbilievable!