CameraAndClay

CameraAndClay offers you the joy that comes from pouring your morning coffee or tea into a beautiful handmade mug. As you take a sip, your thoughts can be transported by an expressive photographic landscape or cityscape. Your friends and family will enjoy opening a gift made for them with love and passion.

All items in this shop are handmade by me. Please contact me with your comments and questions. I would love to hear from you!

To learn more about my journey as an artist and the evolution of CameraAndClay, please keep reading.
My passion for photography (Camera) and functional pottery (Clay) began in high school. With math and science requirements completed, I began taking any and every art class I could. My high school still had a darkroom, so I jumped into film photography with enthusiasm. Our rather eccentric photography teacher, saw my drive and made me his assistant. After completing my class assignments, I maintained safe procedures in the darkroom and helped students load film, mix chemicals, and print their photos. I absolutely loved it.
The high school also gave me a foundation in pottery hand-building. On the weekends, a pottery teacher from another area high school, taught me wheel throwing. With practice, I began centering clay and making small bowls. I was hooked.
When it came time to apply for college, the (often very loud) practical voices encouraged me to study "something useful". However, my art teachers and parents helped me see that art was at my creative core and, if possible, I should pursue it. I was privileged to attend the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) where I majored in photography. The transition from film photography to digital presented a philosophical challenge for me, though I successfully met that challenge; today, digital expertise forms part of my repertoire as a working photographer. Personally, large format analog [film] photography is my favorite medium. I owe much to my photography mentors at SCAD. By their example, I saw it is possible to make a successful living through art.
In search of mountains and nature, I moved from the Washington DC area to Asheville NC several years ago. Confident in my photography skills, I realized that the potter in me needed nurturing. I have been honored to study at The Village Potters in Asheville, under the guidance of Sarah Wells Rolland, Judy Harwood, Lori Theriault and others . Working with the artists at The Village Potters, I am challenged daily to find my own expression in clay.
I have always admired those who could make art for others to enjoy. Until recently, I lacked confidence to do this myself. Through the firm support of family, friends, my fiancé, and the inspiring teachers at SCAD and in Asheville, this year I have finally found that confidence. CameraAndClay is the result.
I am excited to meet new friends and spread love and joy as CameraAndClay grows and evolves.