Curriculum Vitae

Justen Okanemi

Ceramicist | Multidisciplinary Artist
Los Angeles, California
okanemi@gmail.com

Artist Statement / Summary

Multidisciplinary artist and ceramicist whose practice explores storytelling through abstraction, symbolism, and material transformation. Working across ceramics, poetry, photography, painting, and sculpture, Okanemi’s work investigates memory, identity, grief, healing, and spiritual reconstruction through tactile form and visual language.

With over 4,000 hours dedicated to ceramics practice and research, his work merges poetic narrative with clay through self-directed study, mentorship, and material experimentation. His process emphasizes intentionality, emotional resonance, and the translation of lived experience into sculptural vessels and abstract forms.

Professional Experience

Okanemi — Los Angeles, California

Artist & Ceramicist
August 2023 – Present

  • Develop and produce functional and sculptural ceramic works utilizing wheel throwing, hand-building and mixed surface techniques

  • Maintain an independent multidisciplinary studio practice integrating ceramics, poetry, photography, and painting

  • Exhibit and sell original ceramic works through exhibitions, markets, commissions, online platforms, and independent releases

  • Mentor and assist developing ceramic artists through studio guidance, technical instruction, and creative critique

  • Research glaze chemistry, kiln firing processes, and material experimentation within cone 5–10 ceramic practices

Hause Of Soulo — Las Vegas, Nevada

Painter & Therapeutic Art Coach
February 2020 – 2023

  • Facilitated therapeutic and exploratory art experiences through painting and guided creative exercises

  • Assisted individuals in developing emotional expression and self-awareness through visual art practices

  • Produced commissioned paintings and collaborative visual works for community-centered creative initiatives

  • Supported creative programming focused on healing, mindfulness, and artistic confidence-building

Education

Los Angeles City College — Los Angeles, California

Associate of Arts in Studio Arts
Expected Completion: 2026

  • GPA: 3.4

  • Dean’s List

  • Recipient, Kerry James Marshall Scholarship Grant

California State University, Fullerton — Fullerton, California

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Arts (Accepted Transfer Student)
Beginning Fall 2026

Exhibitions & Showings

Group Exhibitions

  • Dragon Alley Art Exhibition — Las Vegas, Nevada (2021)

  • Okanemi’s Oasis — Las Vegas, Nevada (2023)

  • LACC VAMA Exhibition — Los Angeles, California (2025)

  • 39th Annual CCACA Conference Exhibition — Davis, California (2026)

  • Kerry James Marshall Scholarship Exhibition — Los Angeles, California (2026)

Awards & Recognition

  • Kerry James Marshall Scholarship Grant Recipient (2026)

  • Dean’s List — Los Angeles City College