Looking for a creative outlet, I returned to pottery after a six-year hiatus. Since first being introduced to clay in a high school art class, I have been attracted to the tactile aspect and 3-dimensionality of transforming raw materials into something functional and beautiful. I am fascinated watching a blob of earth turn into a striking form and seeing liquid glass melt into a decorative surface. I am excited to be part of the process. Plus, pottery gives me permission to get dirty.

 

Ever since I realized I could, I have wanted to make my own dishes. Hence, my use of high fire stoneware and food-safe glazes in my attempt at numerous bowls and mugs thrown on the wheel. I noticed that I had been operating out of a belief that art gains further value if it is useful ---almost like I have to justify my own artistic pursuits. I started exploring more sculptural and aesthetic outcomes for my clay pieces, getting comfortable with the idea that my work can be beautiful even if it’s not utilitarian. I enjoy rendering faces and torsos and find my work is shaped by human anatomy and/or the human condition. No doubt this is a spontaneous result of life influences. I am a licensed massage therapist and I hold a master’s degree in Humanities. 

 

In the past my circle of influence has been rather narrow. I have relied on professors and fellow students to set the bar in the ceramics studio. But lately I have been watching throwing demonstrations on U-tube, leafing through ceramics magazines and books as well as visiting with local potters. I have come to discover that I am most inspired by contemporary Japanese and British potters, and growing a deeper appreciation for hand building techniques. Techniques new to my repertoire include altering thrown pieces, joining multiple forms, incising, carving and low-fire glazes. More will be revealed as I evolve as an artist, with hopes that my pieces ever improve in craftsmanship, creativity and aesthetic.