Meet Teddy Osei | Artists & Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Teddy Osei and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Teddy, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
I view risk as an essential and dynamic element of both my life and career. Embracing risk has been pivotal in shaping my artistic journey and personal growth. Taking risks is not merely about courting uncertainty; it’s about pushing boundaries and stepping outside of comfort zones to discover new possibilities and perspectives.

In my career as a ceramic artist and educator, taking risks has manifested in various ways. For instance, exploring unconventional techniques and materials in my art has allowed me to create unique art forms. This willingness to experiment and innovate has been crucial in developing my distinctive voice and approach to art.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a mixed-media ceramic artist and an Assistant Professor of Ceramics. My work primarily explores themes of migration, displacement, and the concept of boundaries, both physical and metaphorical. What sets my art apart is its ability to tell stories and initiate critical conversations about identity, belonging, and the human experience. By combining traditional ceramic techniques with contemporary narratives, I create pieces that are visually compelling and rich in meaning.
Getting to where I am today professionally was not easy. It involved navigating different cultures and environments, which imbued me with a sense of adaptability and perseverance. Overcoming these challenges required resilience, drawing strength from my cultural heritage, and a supportive community of fellow artists, educators, and students. These experiences taught me the importance of curiosity, adaptability, and technical skill in ceramics.
I want the world to know that my art is a bridge between diverse cultures and experiences, reflecting the complexity and fluidity of our world. Through my work, I aim to create meaningful dialogue and impact, encouraging viewers to engage with broader societal issues. My journey is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and a purpose-driven approach to art.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting Newcastle, DE for a week, I’d ensure they experience the best the area has to offer. We’d start with breakfast at Captain’s Corner, visit the New Castle Historical Society, and have dinner at Jessop’s Tavern. We’d enjoy coffee at Cafe New Castle, stroll through Battery Park, and end the day with drinks and live music at Penn’s Place. Brunch at Blue Heron Cafe would be followed by an art exploration at the Delaware Contemporary, and dinner at Banks’ Seafood Kitchen. Breakfast at Olympic Subs & Steaks would precede a visit to the Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, with dinner at Moro’s Table. We’d hike at White Clay Creek State Park, lunch at Grain Craft Bar + Kitchen, and dine at Harry’s Savoy Grill. A relaxed morning at Scrumptious would lead to a day trip to Rehoboth Beach and seafood dinner at Big Fish Grill. Finally, we’d relax at Frolic on the Green, visit the Hagley Museum and Library, and have a farewell dinner at The Green Room at Hotel du Pont in Wilmington. This itinerary offers a mix of historical sites, beautiful outdoor spaces, and delicious dining options, ensuring a memorable visit to Newcastle, DE.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to the vibrant community of artists, educators, and students who have supported and inspired me throughout my journey. Their unwavering encouragement, constructive feedback, and collaborative spirit have been instrumental in my growth and success. Additionally, the profound influence of key books and the support network of family and friends have provided a strong foundation and constant encouragement, shaping my path and fueling my passion for art.

Website: https://teddyoseiart.com/

Instagram: teddyosei937

Linkedin: teddy osei

Twitter: Teddy Osei