Hey all, I’m Signe Ariel Sampou, the face behind SIGGY. Although I use my first name professionally, most people just call me Ariel!

I grew up on Cape Cod, then attended Green Mountain College where I earned my BFA in Visual Arts, with a concentration in ceramics.

I am interested in ceramic work as a mode of visual story-telling. Through illustrative surface design that interacts with physical form, I build ceramic works that communicate narratives experienced and imagined. On forms both wheel thrown and handbuilt, I use brightly colored slips and sgraffito to bring to life characters and their stories. The subjects of my work are often inspired by themes of childhood- toys, animals, and picture books continue to be some of my greatest creative muses. Most of my narrative work is based on personal experiences, giving me an opportunity to sit with past moments and process them, thus I create forms that are imperfect, retaining a touched appearance that lends itself to the intimacy of the illustrations. I am fascinated with the small, yet deeply significant moments of our lives. My work serves to call attention to those moments, to reflect on the humor, tenderness, and absurdity of the human experience.

When not working in the studio, I spend my time pampering my pets, trying new recipes with fresh ingredients from my garden.