A Smile Built In
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CREATE, CREATE, CREATE!!!

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About Me

I don't remember a time in my life I wasn't making something from any materials available. I began college studies in art but, being practical, finished a degree in sociology. That led to a career as a social worker. When our son was born, I returned to art, specifically to fiber arts. But once a potter friend introduced me to stoneware and porcelain, it was as if I had come home. Clay took over. Juried art shows were a regular part of life for my husband, son and me for 20+ years. I became known for animal forms with happy, endearing expressions - both in sculptural and functional work - at shows across 5 states. Moving to Wilmington, N.C. brought more contact with wonderful artists and opportunities for workshops with two visiting artists from China, as well as other experts. 

I primarily work in clay and mixed media. In clay I am a hand-builder - animals and happy faces are often the subject matter. I enjoy raku firing as often as I can.

My work's focus is on lightening the mood in daily life with a smile here and there. Something special I’ve created for that purpose are the HeartStones – a means of causing a daily lift in mood. There have been awards and ribbons from exhibits and festivals, but my most cherished prize is the number of smiles the pieces collect along the way.

Why I Do What I Do

I make things because I HAVE to make things - it's an ongoing need in my life.  The extra benefit  comes from the smiles that result from pieces born during the collaboration with my happy muse.

Work Process

I am primarily a hand-builder.  The idea forms in my head and my hands work with the clay to bring the idea into form.  Most of my work is single-fired, which means the work is brush-glazed when the pieces are bone dry.  This requires a careful hand to avoid breaking or collapsing the pieces before firing.  It also gives the glazing a slightly different look because the glaze absorbs differently and sometimes brush marks become part of the work.  All my designs are original and textures are made with stamps and roulettes I design and create myself.

I tend to work organically in multimedia work, allowing the piece to help direct the process. I'm a great believer in the value of play in the "work" of art.
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  • Home
  • About
  • Faces
  • Animals in Pottery
  • Bells
  • Raku
  • HeartStones
  • Jewelry
  • Making Stamps
  • Other Media
  • Contact