Danny D's Mud Shop is a small LA based ceramics company started out of a garage in Echo Park. Now the Mud Shop operates out of a brick and mortar store and workshop in East Hollywood. 

The Mud Shop’s work revolves around transforming simple materials into vibrant, playful ceramics that encapsulate influences from traditional tattooing, the American West and quirky illustrations – all embodied into the eclectic work seen at the store. From cactuses to cowboys, these themes are brought to life in everything from cups to vases to plates. Every single piece is hand formed, carved and painted. There are no molds or machines and all work is one-of-one. 

While based in Los Angeles, the Mud Shop collaborates with a select group of clients, retailers and designers internationally, with work featured in cities including Tokyo, Paris, London and Toronto.

When / how did you decide to open The Mud Shop?

September 1st 2024 was the day I signed the lease, so as I write this its our two year celebration. The shop was just a way to rejoin the community with my work. Before the shop, we were in a artist warehouse near downtown - and as efficient as it was, I found that we lost some touch with the people who enjoyed our work. It was never a huge goal to open retail, but the space we found just lended to it so well. 

How has your relationship with pottery changed since its creation — and its success?

As you transfer your hobby into a career, and take strides to properly run a healthy business, things naturally change. My relationship to pottery is different than it was when I first began. My day to day is less revolved around creating, and moreso managing and building. We have a team of 6 people now, so my days can be quite hectic. I love pottery, and always will. I still get very excited to explore a new design and develop new products, there are just so many more considerations to be made these days. 

I know you’ve also got a green thumb. When did you start gardening? 

With Peyton, my partner, we build a small garden and relandscaped our backyard in Highland Park. It can be hectic, but its an excellent way to start a morning 

Any tips to share with aspiring gardeners out there?

Patience - a garden is something that builds over years and years. Theres no such thing as a overnight transformation. 

What’s your favorite meal to make (at least partially) with things grown at home? 

Share the full recipe + a photo! We have tomatoes, kale, chard, and at one point cucumbers. Something simple, like a salad with a really good vinegar, flakey salt, and oil.

We have to ask — how are you using avocado oil in your cooking (or otherwise)?

Salads from our garden take it really well. Something more neutral so the oil can show well.

Where are your favorite spots to eat in LA?

We go to Etra often, Dunsmoor, Izakaya Osen, Dune, and Sam’s Place in Highland Park. Im a regular at a lot places, its a creature comfort type of thing. 

Not to get too existential, but do you think all of your creative interests are interconnected in some way?

Yes I believe so. I think theres a reason for everything, and my interest in Legos as a young kid probably has something to do with my interest in building things from clay. Things from the garden and farmers market find its way into illustrations onto my plates. I love old trucks, and this is also seen at the shop.

What’s inspiring you these days?

Travel as always, visiting new stores, and finding excuses to be outside of the studio. As the business grows the latter is so difficult, but so important in allowing to grow.