Touching Earth

Clay smells like home to me. My father was a ceramics professor and I grew up playing in his studio. From ancient and humble earth, I explore forms that reflect my experiences in and of the world – how water and wind flow, the angles of rocks and mountains, and suggestions of human and animal bodies.  

 

I usually throw the forms on the wheel and then hand alter them. My background in sculpture liberates me from the traditional methods of a potter. I push my forms to go beyond beauty and function. Once thrown, I cut into them-dart, add coils, carve, pinch and indent, until the form speaks to me. 

 

The surface may be left bare for a soft matt finish like bone, or glaze and stains may be sprayed and layered in different color combinations. I prefer atmospheric firing, cone 10 gas, as it embraces an unpredictable outcome, and the pieces have a symbiotic relationship during the firing. My work allows me to silently connect with others, inviting touch and engaging curiosity.