Meet the Makers

We’re excited to highlight Ljakobsberg Ceramics in celebration of Womens Small Business Month, founded by ceramic artist Lisa Jakobsberg. Based in Park Slope, Lisa creates one-of-a-kind, functional ceramic pieces, blending modern aesthetics with vibrant colors, Sgraffito etching, and hand-painted glaze designs. Each piece is made by hand, resulting in stunning, contemporary clay objects that are both beautiful and practical.

Lisa’s journey with ceramics began in the early ‘90s when she first learned wheel-throwing techniques at Greenwich House Pottery in the West Village. What started as a hobby and creative outlet alongside her full-time career and raising children eventually laid the foundation for Ljakobsberg Ceramics, which she launched in 2021. “At first, it was something I did just for myself,” Lisa recalls. “I never imagined that 30 years later it would become my business.”

Lisa’s designs draw from her extensive travels, most recently in South America and Mexico, where she’s inspired by the art and culture. “I love how pottery can embody the interconnectedness of our world,” Lisa shares. “It’s a way to blend the cultural richness I experience abroad with my contemporary style.”

Since launching her business, Lisa has faced challenges, particularly in being taken seriously as a woman-owned business. “Men often see my work as a hobby rather than a business,” she says. “They don’t always realize that beyond creating ‘pretty’ ceramics, I have sales goals, track expenses, pay taxes, and manage a website. It’s a full-time business, and there’s so much more to it than what meets the eye.” When it comes to advice for women thinking of starting their own business, Lisa emphasizes the importance of testing your ideas and building a network.

To Lisa, being a woman-owned business is empowering, especially starting her venture in her 60s. “My entire career was spent working for others. Now, I’m the ‘chief cook and bottle washer,’ and it’s both exciting and challenging. I’m proud of my confidence and fearlessness to build something new at this stage of my life.”