Artist Statement
I create work that reflects my love for and reverence toward the natural world. Observing trees, plants, and wildlife in my backyard and beyond continually inspires me. I make porcelain objects for the home, integrating these observations into the handmade pottery I create. This imagery and these ideas are incorporated onto the surface of the clay through hand painting, stamping, carving, and the use of sprigs.
Through this work, I aim to evoke feelings of joy, happiness, and calm. These pieces are intended for daily use and enjoyment, bringing nature indoors and inspiring those who use them.
Bio
I began exploring clay in high school and was immediately captivated by the material and its magical, malleable properties. That curiosity led me to study art at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, where I was first introduced to the potter’s wheel in my initial ceramics course. It was there that I began learning the demanding yet rewarding process of creating functional pottery.
I earned my BFA in 2003 and, upon graduation, moved to Pittsburgh to immerse myself in the local arts community and continue making pots. In 2005, I began teaching ceramics at the Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild, where I taught for eight years. In 2010, I built my home studio and founded Wolf’s Den Pottery. Around this time, I transitioned from cone 10 gas and atmospheric firings to cone 6 electric firing.
In 2013, I stepped away from full-time teaching to focus on a full-time studio practice, creating functional pottery for Wolf’s Den Pottery.
Currently, I sell my work online through my Etsy shop and through my studio showroom; appointments are available by email. I also sell my work regionally throughout Pennsylvania and Ohio and participate in approximately 15 events each year. A full schedule can be found on the Shop page.