A love affair in clay...
As a child, I dreamed of becoming an artist, but It was not until 1997 that I was able to pursue that dream in earnest. It was for me like returning to an abandoned love affair.
I began my journey in clay by working at a local ceramics studio to reclaim my throwing skills, make glazes, and fire a kiln. I also pursued painting to enhance the surface decoration of my work. More recently I have pursued painting and sculpture at the college level.
To support my continuing education in art, I developed and taught ceramics to young children at a local after school program. While I am not currently teaching, teaching art to children was definitely one of the most joyous and rewarding experiences of my life.
In 2006 I was able to build a studio in the basement my home in Oakland and buy a kiln. I spend summers at Hebgen Lake, Montana and have created a studio there as well. When making work in Montana, I use a variety of paper clays which are strong enough to withstand the trip back to California for firing.
My art is a response to life and nature is the lifeblood of my work. Its colors, shifting lights, darks, and patterns fill me with wonder and joy.
Color is an integral part of nature and I use a lot of it in my work. Much of my decorative work is painted freehand onto raw clay, fired, glazed, then fired againI to create a smooth, food safe and watertight surface. I use primarily porcelain clay to achieve the bright colors I love.
While there are definite motifs that reoccur in my work, I am always open to and in search of new forms of inspiration. I invite you to join with me on this journey.
I have been selling my work at shows and galleries since 20ll. I opened my Etsy Shop in 2013 and am delighted to have these venues to share my work with others.
