I make ceramics that bring that sense of connection to our every day lives, or that highlight special moments. I call them “Sacred Ceramics.” While they may be simple objects, they help us focus our attention on the beauty and meaning that is part of every moment.

Much of my work is specialized for Japanese Tea Ceremony, Sake and Tea Ware. I also make Japanese-influenced tableware and sculpture.

I began making ceramics because I wanted to create objects that brought us into deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us. While there is a long history of ceramics for sacred use, I strive to create contemporary objects that bring a sense of sacredness and ritual to our busy lives. I am deeply inspired by the Japanese aesthetic, the rhythm of the seasons, the places I live and work, and the forms, textures and colors of the natural world.

Working with clay is a spiritual practice for me: it forces me to be very present, ground, center, breathe, and let go of my attachment to what I “think” I am doing: it is a form of meditation. My relationship to each piece begins with the clay itself. The feel of it – its coarseness or smoothness, hardness or softness, the shape of the form, the way it develops in time and space. It's almost a dance to me. From there, the choice of glaze and the firing technique are chosen to bring life to the piece. My work is woodfired, much of it in my own kiln, The Princess Kiln, a 24-hour cross draft. I frequently use only traditional Japanese or ash glazes. When possible, I try to use local and wild clays both in the clay body and as slip or glaze materials.

I want the pieces to feel elemental, ancient…and timeless. I seek aliveness in a piece. Imperfections are expected and appreciated; they remind us that we, too, are fragile and imperfect and beautiful because of it. These are objects for both contemplation and use.

While any object can be made sacred, I hope that the intention and attention I offer to each piece gives it a different energy that can be felt when you hold it in your hands or appreciate it.

My work is available for custom orders. Please contact me for more information.