Barrsala by Juan Barragan

Born in San Diego to Mexican-American parents, Juan Barragan—who creates under the name JC BARRSALA—has been surrounded by art since childhood. His ceramic works delve into the emotional landscapes of life and identity, often inspired by the people closest to him. In Form 2: Madre, he honors the strength and grace of his mother, blending form and feeling in a deeply personal tribute.

Barragan was first introduced to ceramics during his sophomore year of high school and immediately felt a deep connection to the art form. After two years of college study, he made the bold decision to follow his creative calling and pursue his dreams directly. This leap led to the founding of BARRSALA, his clothing company, which soon evolved into The Barrsala Art & Design Studio — a creative space where every form of art is encouraged and celebrated. From clay to clothing, and even the occasional cardboard experiment, Barragan continues to explore the endless ways creativity can take shape.

Grounded in heritage and faith, BARRSALA approaches clay as a medium that mirrors human life—imperfect yet beautiful. The cracks, textures, and irregularities that shape his pieces are embraced as symbols of our own vulnerabilities and resilience, suggesting that even in our brokenness we remain worthy of love and renewal. Working with traditional methods and wild clay gathered from his family’s land, he allows the material’s natural qualities to guide each form, resulting in works that are raw, intimate, and deeply human.