I enjoy the creative process of turning a lump of mud into a useable vessel. I create art because the process provides practice for the qualities I most want to embody. Pottery requires me to slow down, forces me to focus, and is a way to share myself with the greater world even when I am actively enjoying the solitude of being a hermit. My art is an extension of my soul.
I create handmade functional art for everyday use as a reminder of the beauty that exists in the mundane activities of daily life. A reminder of the sacred nature of all the every-days that make up a lifetime.
I draw inspiration from the natural world, the change of season and sacred shapes and symbols.
I use a foot powered kickwheel. I’ve been intrigued with this non-electric machine since I was first introduced to it in 1987.
I utilize three clay bodies…B-Mix (smooth, white), Speckled Buff (freckled and textured) and New Mexico Chocolate (smooth and dark brown). I appreciate the variation in color and texture.
My surface decoration technique of choice is slip trailing. ‘Slip’ is created by adding water to clay and whisking until it is the consistency of pudding. I use a rubber bulb applicator affixed with a metal tip to free hand the (slip trailed) designs onto my work before firing in the kiln.
My pottery influencers include TS Berger, Judy and Bill Therrien, Terry Acker, Donna Inscho-Hynes, Tim Preston and Karl Yost. I admire their extravagant sharing of talent, knowledge, and humor. As well as their ability to create and nurture community via art and kindness.
My work is based on life experiences. I started making the orb shaped finch feeders while working at Fort Collins Nursery and watching the finches nesting in the evergreen trees.
Coffee/tea press pots as a result of finding my favorite local coffee roaster (Wander Coffee) https://wandercoffee.com/ and tea blender Sonia Masocco’s Sleepy Tea https://soniamasocco.com (thanks Fort Collins Food Co-Op https://www.fcfood.coop ).
Large bowls and platter have been influenced by my desire to explore larger surfaces for decorative design and a desire to share meals with groups of friends.