Photography by Werner Segarra

Owner: Jim Sudal
Opened: January 2008
Location: 7037 E. 1st Ave., Suite A,  Old Town Scottsdale
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.; and by appointment
Phone: (480) 947-2254
Web site: jimsudalpottery.com
History: A native of Connecticut, Jim Sudal found his calling in the Arizona desert. The ceramist and gallery owner’s interest in art started at a young age, but it was during his final year as an international business student at the University of Arizona that he took his first pottery class. After working briefly in the corporate world, Sudal accepted a job with Desert Botanical Garden (DBG) and developed an appreciation for Sono-
ran Desert vegetation. Inspired, he began crafting pottery again, selling his planters and bowls at DBG and participating in art shows. In the late ’90s, Sudal went out on his own and became a full-time artist, and in 2008 he expanded his focus, opening a gallery/shop with a working studio where clients can experience his craft firsthand.
Philosophy: “I can’t imagine making pottery anywhere else but Arizona,” Sudal comments, adding that he enjoys sharing his processes and creations with the public in an intimate and inviting setting.
What’s in store: Walking into the historic Old Town Scottsdale building that houses the gallery, one is greeted by a 3-D ceramic agave rosette wall piece measuring 7 feet in diameter (shown above). Other standouts range from tiled benches and tables to custom house numbers and sconces shaped like agave leaves. In addition, a collection of square tiles ideal for outdoor kitchens or backsplashes is offered in three botanical themes. All of Sudal’s stoneware pieces are suitable for outdoor use. Motifs include an array of Arizona flora, fruit trees, palms and cacti and succulents, including blooming aloes and prickly pears. Paints and glazes are custom-made, and many of the items can be custom-sized. Delivery and installation services are available.
Don’t miss: Be sure to stroll to the back of the store, where Sudal’s studio is open for exploration. Shelves are filled with molds, paints and works in progress.