Paula Rothbaum


October 2023


Potter of the Month

  • What is your ceramics history? What drew you to pottery?

    I have always been the creative type. As a kid growing up in R.I., I took classes at RISD and as an adult I went there to earn a certificate in Graphic Design. I also graduated from URI with a B.A. in Textiles & Design and a minor in Art.

    I do not have a long ceramics history. I only started exploring about 2 years ago. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do but never had the time! It was when my daughter started learning from Lizanne that I made myself do it.

  • What inspires your pottery?

    Nature, textures, patterns in my everyday surroundings.

  • What is your favorite forming method?

    People always ask if I like hand building more or the wheel—I like them both! Each has its rewards and challenges.

    I don’t think I have a style yet—maybe I do? People would probably use the word organic to describe my style?

  • What life lessons have you learned from pottery?

    Just like in everyday situations on life, you need to keep an open mind, accept something, be fluid and move on. You are not growing if you are not making mistakes and learning from them.

  • What 3 words do you think of when you think of pottery?

    Therapeutic, community, and history.

  • What is your greatest challenge related to pottery and how have you conquered it?

    My greatest challenge is glazing! It can either make a piece outstanding or ruin it completely. I’ve learned to accept the process and move on learning from my mistakes.

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

    Making something out of nothing and seeing what I am capable of.

  • Show us the piece you’re most proud of. Why does it make you happy?

    I am most proud of this piece – a simple white pasta serving bowl that I made for a friend. It made her so happy and was exactly what she wanted. There was nothing complicated about making this and sometimes those are the best pieces, the simple ones.

I sell my pottery at the Potters Place Show & Sale. The next Show & Sale will be an indoor, holiday sale on December 1st and 2nd at our studio. I hope to see you there!

You can contact me at prothbaum31@gmail.com.