Young pottery artist – ceramicist calls community attention to the craft

“I wasn’t really expecting that people from Oriental Mindoro will appreciate immediately this kind of work," Carl Abram L. Alcedo

When Carl Abram L. Alcedo was in Grade 6, he needed more pots for his growing collection of plants, a hobby he was passionate about. Instead of purchasing them, Carl decided to make his own.

This decision sparked a journey that has now led him to mastering the art of terracotta and ceramics.

On August 19, the Department of Trade and Industry - Oriental Mindoro invited Carl as a resource person on creative pottery at an exhibit held in a mall in Calapan City. Representing his business, "Carl's Earthen Pots and Ceramics," Carl showcased his work, which blends traditional and modern pottery techniques.

“I wasn’t really expecting a lot about my participation in this event, my goal is just to introduce myself as a potter, in behalf of Carl's Earthen Pots and Ceramics in Oriental Mindoro: who works with traditional and modern techniques in Pottery and Ceramics,” said Alcedo, fondly called Carl, in his social media post after his products were sold out even before the exhibit timeframe ended. 

At just 20 years old, Carl was pleasantly surprised by the warm reception his work received.

“I wasn’t really expecting that people from Oriental Mindoro will appreciate immediately this kind of work, given that this is a very complex topic for people who are not familiar with it. Given that the price is highly different from the usual items available in the province,” he added.

Pottery, a specialized branch of ceramics, involves shaping and firing clay to create both functional and decorative objects. Ceramics, a broader term, includes various materials formed by firing non-metallic inorganic substances at high temperatures.

Carl’s success is a testament to his dedication and talent, and he sees it as a step toward fulfilling his vision of creating a supportive community of potters in Oriental Mindoro. His prayers are being answered as he continues to advocate for this growing art form in the province.

"I’m grateful for everyone who attended, bought my work, took pictures," Alcedo

From play to hobby to livelihood 

On December 31, 2023, I visited Carl Abram L. Alcedo at his workshop in Sitio Camansihan, Barangay Pambisan Malaki, Pinamalayan. His mother, Gertrudes L. Alcedo, a government employee, recalled how she initially tried to discourage young Carl from the mess he made while playing with clay. But Carl, curious and imaginative, was not deterred.

At 11 years old, Carl would borrow his uncle’s bicycle during school vacations to visit the neighboring village of Inclanay, where he assisted local potters. Even when the pandemic struck, Carl’s creativity flourished—he baked cakes at home, only to suffer a burn on his right hand. Yet, instead of giving up, Carl saw it as a lesson to slow down and continued crafting while healing.

Growing up with parents who were active in their parish, Carl was also involved in parish-based camps, including one in 2016 at Miguel Ansaldo Sr. Memorial Elementary School, where I was a resource person. It was here that I first noticed the quiet, unassuming boy who would later reveal himself to be a cultural treasure.

Carl’s mother eventually recognized that her son was not just playing but passionately honing a God-given talent. “We never expected that his passion would become a source of income, especially during the pandemic when his brother was hospitalized after a motor accident,” she said.

Carl’s work has diversified, now including plant holders, dinnerware, mugs, and plates. “He’s like our community’s version of Ugu Bigyan,” said Omar Uycoque, a college instructor in arts, history, and culture, referring to the renowned master potter from Quezon province.

Despite being a full-time student in his third year at Pinamalayan Maritime Foundation and Technological College Inc., where he is pursuing a degree in Business Administration and Marketing Management, Carl continues to blend creativity with entrepreneurship.

“Carl has a remarkable ability to turn the ordinary into something beautiful, giving it qualities that elevate it beyond mere utility—through glaze, shape, design, and proportion,” said Evelyn Cacha, an environmental activist and businesswoman who has become one of Carl’s supportive clients.

While most teenagers spend their time hanging out, Carl has chosen to devote himself to his craft. He quietly spins his potter’s wheel, creating pieces that express his innermost thoughts while allowing God to shape him on his journey.

“A potter’s journey requires curiosity, imagination, focus, patience, determination, and a sense of purpose,” Carl says. When asked for advice for those who wish to follow in his footsteps, he offers, “I hope you find the right style—find your spark in what you do. The greatest gift is finding joy, and sometimes, you even earn from it.”

Having just returned from a successful exhibit, Carl’s heart is full: “I’m grateful for everyone who attended, bought my work, took pictures, and opened new doors for opportunities. It’s a clear manifestation of their appreciation for what I do,” he shared.