Biography
I’ve been fascinated with clay since my second-grade class had a ‘play with clay day’. (I made a dolphin, a leaf, and a funny-face paperweight that my dad still keeps on his desk.) Years later I reconnected with pottery almost on a whim, after reading a Carl Jung quote about how working with clay is very ‘grounding’ and conducive to happiness.. So glad I did.
I love the fluidity of clay, how it can be anything you want it to be. How it transforms from ultimate softness to a hardness that can last thousands of years. When I make a pot, I am conscious of the hundreds of generations of makers before me, all taking the same actions, touching clay in the same way, rounding and smoothing to make a lip that properly engages the mouth, a handle that is easy to hold, a shape that feels right in the hand, a decoration that speaks to me and those around me.
I am inspired by the great pottery of other cultures, primarily from the Middle East and Asia, and the American southwest. These are eternal shapes that transcend time and place, and there is great beauty and peacefulness in re-creating them in a modern context.
I love the spontaneity of clay, and I am drawn to alternative firing techniques because the results are unpredictable, surprising, often unexpectedly beautiful, and unrepeatable. Each piece is unique. Besides, there’s just something quintessentially human about gathering around a blazing fire, sticking something into the flames, and waiting to see what happens.
I love experimenting with new ideas and new techniques, learning something new from both successes and failures.
I make pottery for myself because it is a joyful process for me. Some days I make ‘serious’ pieces. Some days I just wanna make silly paperweights. Most days I’m inspired by the process, and usually, I’m pleased with the results.
I hope others find pleasure in what I make, as well.
