Jonathan Adler: Design Tangents Episode Thirteen

Insights (and vocab lessons) from the beloved potter, interior decorator and author

6 March 2024

Decades ago, we first met potter, interior decorator and author Jonathan Adler when he worked at a film talent agency by day and threw clay during nights and weekends. In 1993, Adler—an irreverent, fantastical designer with a mighty vocabulary—launched his first collection of ceramics at Barneys. It was an opportunity that would begin to shift his future from design outsider to industry leader. From the opening his first boutique in SoHo to an eponymous design company with retail locations worldwide, Adler’s maintained his integrity and authenticity. In the latest episode of Design Tangents, we speak with the multi-hyphenate about the essence of utopian design versus dystopian build, adopting a signature flourish and more.

Adler, who spent nearly a decade as a full-time production potter, is always imagining something new. “So much of my work does start in my pottery studio but I see it as a means to an end rather than a meditative pursuit,” he says. “Today, I have a very insular craft-based design practice which started in clay and moved into a squillion different materials, voices and categories.”

I say yes to everything. I have always been that type of person.
Jonathan Adler

Authenticity, an innate desire to express himself through creation, and a willingness to learn, experiment and explore all informs Adler’s success. “I say yes to everything,” he tells us, “and I recognize that many of my yeses will probably lead to unexpected opportunities.” He notes that it was never his intention to forge a design empire. In fact, he didn’t even think of himself as a brand. He just made things—and continues to make things—because he enjoys it.

To learn more about Adler’s future, as well as the influence of AI, new technologies and the virtual world on his design process, tune in to Design Tangents now.