Jesse Bartels
Ceramics, Mixed Media
Booth Number#: 812
Year Started At Sawdust: 2009
2026 Exhibitor: Summer Festival
Artist Statement
I create ceramic art because I love the balance between control and surprise. Clay is alive—it moves, shrinks, cracks, and ultimately transforms. I find joy in being part of that unpredictable process. My mosaics are colorful, bold, and spontaneous, designed to bring humor and energy into the spaces they inhabit. I believe art should feel alive, just like the people and communities it’s made for.
I work primarily with hand-rolled and cut tile, sculpted elements, and glazes I formulate myself. Each piece begins with a loose idea but evolves organically. I rarely map everything out—instead, I let the shapes and materials lead the way. Whether I’m creating a large mural or a garden sculpture, I want the work to feel personal, handmade, and full of curiosity.
Growing up in Laguna Beach, surrounded by artists and inspired by the local beaches, trails, and canyons, I developed a deep love for ceramics. My work is playful and rooted in tradition, yet always looking to surprise. I want people to laugh, to wonder, and to imagine future archaeologists uncovering these strange little tiles and puzzling over their story.
Artist Bio
“What we know about ancient cultures often comes from the images carved or painted onto their ceramics. I’m here to confuse future archaeologists!”
This playful motto captures the spirit of Jesse Bartels, a second-generation ceramic artist whose bold, one-of-a-kind mosaics light up homes, gardens, and public spaces across Southern California. Drawing inspiration from the global history of tile making, Jesse sees his work as a continuation of the ceramic tradition—infused with contemporary color, humor, and Southern California soul.
Born into a family of artists in Laguna Beach, Jesse was immersed in the creative process from an early age. He began demonstrating pottery at the Sawdust Art Festival as a teen, managing the ceramic booth for three years before becoming studio assistant to his father, renowned ceramicist Marlo Bartels. For over 16 years, Jesse has been a beloved fixture at the Sawdust Festival, exhibiting in both the summer show and Winter Fantasy.
Signature Style:
- Vibrant Mosaics: Bold color palettes, intricate tile work, and whimsical details define Jesse’s mosaic style.
- Custom Installations: Available for home, garden, business, or public art projects—each piece tailored to its space.
- Handcrafted Originals: No two works are alike. Each piece evolves organically from a story or spontaneous idea.
- Functional Art: From wall murals to garden sculptures, Jesse’s work is both beautiful and built to last.
In 2024, Jesse’s public mural Seagull Eclipse was commissioned by the City of Laguna Beach and installed near Woodland Drive—a permanent testament to his craftsmanship and joyful approach. His work continues to be celebrated for its energy, authenticity, and emotional connection to place.
“I create to surprise people, to make them look twice,” Jesse says. “My hope is that in 100 years, someone finds one of my tiles and wonders what kind of world it came from.”
Whether you’re looking to add personality to your home or bring art into your community, Jesse Bartels delivers unforgettable ceramic designs rooted in tradition, spontaneity, and personal expression.
