Sam Lopez (S.LOP) is a potter and educator living and working in San Diego, CA. He makes porcelain pots that elevate the everyday ritual of eating, drinking, and sharing food with family and friends. His passion for food and cuisine direct his approach to making thoughtfully crafted pottery for the home and table. He is dedicated to a life of perpetual learning and experimenting with his studio practice and is continually evolving his work. You can find Sam’s pots in kitchen collections all around the country.
Meet the Potter
Sam grew up in Mira Loma, CA just 45 miles east of Los Angeles. His father is a saddle maker and helped Sam hone his attention to detail, respect for tradition, and attachment to the community in which he serves. In 2014, Sam received a BA in Applied Design from San Diego State University and continued his studies at SDSU to later receive an MFA in ceramics in 2020. He taught ceramics and sculpture at Riverside City College in Riverside, CA from 2017-2021 and established SLOP studios in San Diego in 2017. He has taught workshops all over the country at various colleges, high schools, and craft centers. Sam also teaches virtual workshops from his home studio to students all around the world. He is an active member of the San Diego clay community as a member of Clay Artists of San Diego and participates in the annual San Diego Pottery Tour. His work can be seen in exhibitions throughout the country and is also available online through Companion Gallery in Humboldt, TN. In February 2021, Sam and his wife Shannon welcomed their brand new baby girl Luna into the world, and Sam can’t wait to get some clay in Luna’s hands.
Watch and Learn
I also have a library of free instructional videos on my Youtube channel. If you have a request for a video, send it! I love being able to help and will continue to post videos as much as possible.