What is your ceramics history? How did you become a potter?

Many years ago I took a class on historic ceramics and became intrigued. Much of my artwork references historical artifacts and figures. I find relics from the past and breath new life into them by modifying the surfaces, adding to the piece or changing it altogether to give it new meaning

What inspires your pottery?

Nature and the patterns, textures and forms that are found there are motivations for my art making and creativity. My visits to museums also provide a wealth of historical artifacts as well as contemporary inspiration.

How would you describe your creation process?

Having worked with clay for over a decade, I hand build both figurative and abstract sculpture in addition to making functional ware. Much of my work has a narrative. I try to vary and create interest in my pieces with different surface decorations, carving the clay or experimenting with oxides and glazes.

What life lessons have you learned from pottery?

Pottery has taught me patience. Pushing clay to its limits, seeing what I can and can not do, waiting through the drying and firing process and accepting what might not be what was intended in the final product.

What is the most rewarding part of the creation process for you?

I love the earthiness of the material and feel a connection to the past when I work with clay. This medium has been used to make figurines and functional ware for tens of thousands of years. I create art because it makes me feel good. Product is not always as important as the process of making.