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 investigates memory, identity, grief, healing, and spiritual reconstruction through tactile form and visual language.
Through self-directed study, mentorship, and material experimentation, his work merges poetic narrative with clay to create sculptural vessels and abstract forms that explore resilience, transformation, and cultural continuity. His process emphasizes intentionality, emotional resonance, and the translation of lived experience into physical form.
Exhibitions & Showings
Group Exhibitions —
Dragon Alley Art Exhibition — Las Vegas, Nevada (2021)
LACC VAMA Exhibition — Los Angeles, California (2025)
39th Annual CCACA Conference Exhibition — Davis, California (2026)
Kerry James Marshall Scholarship Exhibition — Los Angeles, California (2026)
Breaks N’ Bread Art Showcase — Los Angeles, California (2026)
Solo Exhibitions —
Okanemi’s Oasis — Las Vegas, Nevada (2023)
Education
Los Angeles City College — Los Angeles, California
Associate of Arts in Studio Arts
2026
GPA: 3.4
Dean’s List
Recipient, Kerry James Marshall Scholarship Grant
University of Southern California — Los Angeles, California
Bachelor of Arts in Studio Arts (Incoming Transfer Student)
Expected Completion: 2028
Awards & Recognition
Kerry James Marshall Scholarship Recipient, Los Angeles City College (2026)
Dean’s List, Los Angeles City College (2026)
Areas of Practice
Wheel Throwing
Hand-Building
Ceramic Sculpture
Surface Design & Decoration
Glaze Development
Kiln Operation & Firing
Community Arts Education
Poetry & Creative Writing
Photography
Professional Experience
Okanemi — Los Angeles, California
Multidisciplinary Artist & Ceramic Artist
2025 – Present
Create functional and sculptural ceramic works utilizing wheel-throwing, hand-building, and mixed-surface techniques
Maintain an independent studio practice integrating ceramics, poetry, photography, painting, and sculpture
Exhibit and sell original works through exhibitions, markets, commissions, and online platforms
Mentor emerging artists through studio guidance, technical instruction, and creative critique
Conduct ongoing research in glaze chemistry, kiln firing processes, and ceramic materials
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