About Marsha

Sacramento Artist, Marsha Schindler — Marsha Schindler

A biologist at heart, I remain deeply connected to my early training and the world of flora and fauna. Science and art, though different paths, operate in similar ways. In each you observe deeply, find patterns and behaviors and then interpret your observation into a narrative. We are inseparable from the natural world and its stories.

Working primarily in ceramics I create figurative work out of such narratives–real and imaginary. I find that working in series allows me to deepen a specific narrative making room for the inclusion of other concerns – cultural, ecological, and societal. It is my intention to get out of my own way and let the work evolve as naturally as possible. Mishaps and accidents occur; they are welcome and sometimes generative. Themes of migration, journey, connectivity and natural cycles reoccur in ever-changing forms.

My background in drawing, painting and design support the ceramic work, affording me confidence in exploration of three-dimensional forms.

In addition to my own creative work, in 2016 we designed and opened a studio space, now enjoyed by multiple artists. Our shared sense of purpose has manifested a community of mutual understanding, support and shared resource. There, I am able to teach small classes that foster an intimate, unintimidating atmosphere for hands-on learning and experimentation. The studio also has a small gallery where we exhibit work. Our studios are open to the public for several special events each year.

Marsha’s Resume

Sacramento Artist, Ceramic Artist, Sacramento Ceramics

Studio Business Owner
Studio business owner of clayARTstudio814.
Studio Artist
Creating original artworks, specifically a body of ceramic sculptures, in my art studio in Sacramento.

Professor of Art
Foundations Instructor at the Art Institute of California, Sacramento. Taught subjects like fundamentals of design, observational drawing, color theory, perspective, visual language and culture.
Taught a variety of studio art classes and workshops at the Crocker Art Museum.
Art professor for Academic Talent Search summer programs at Sacramento State University. Taught accelerated art classes such as nature and wildlife drawing.
Art professor at American River College, Sacramento. Taught fundamentals of design, collage & assemblage as well as drawing and fundamentals of ceramics.

First Lady’s Office 2007
Designed and created a 10’ x 35ʼ mural in the Governors’ office at the California State Capitol for first lady Maria Shriver.

Muralist
Designed murals for commercial business’s, private residences and public establishments such as clinics, health clubs, medical facilities, community centers, restaurants, model homes, and the Sacramento State Fair.
Interpretive Specialist for County Parks and Recreation
Worked on a variety of exhibits for the Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael.
Assistant Exhibit Designer
Worked as a part-Time Interpretive designer for California State Parks, Marshall Gold Discovery Museum.

Exhibit Artist
Created artwork for the California Museum, Cosumnes River Nature Exhibit Center, Davis Agriculture Building, and Department of Fish & Game as independent contractor.

Marine Biologist 1986-1992
Marine aquarist & assistant curator at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium in San Pedro, CA. Instructor for S.E.A. Taught marine biology & ecology on fishing vessels out of the Port of Los Angeles.