I grew up on the east coast in Marblehead, Massachusetts, a block and a half from the ocean. I knew nothing of pots or potters until I moved to Galena, Illinois, in the late 60’s. While I worked at The Galena Gazette, I was assigned to research the potteries which had flourished in the upper Mississippi valley in the 1850’s, and a new possibility beckoned. For the next 40+ years I explored local clay, attended workshops, participated in kiln building, experimented with a variety of firing methods and continued to hone my skills while working with David Leach, Paul Soldner and others.

With clay, there are endless possibilities and endless mysteries to unravel! It is joy, surprise, risk, disappointment and struggle. It beckons us to grow, to explore, to play and offers meditative moments as we spin soft clay. Beyond any personal experience in the studio, there is great satisfaction in making an object to be used and enjoyed in the world; a favorite mug, a generous bowl or some exuberant or quiet vessel for home or garden.

Inspiration is sparked by the art of others, by the zest and curiosity of children, by books, poets, playwrights, musicians, farmers, carpenters, swimmers, programmers and the gal in the puffy white hat decorating cakes at the bakery. Ideas and inspiration come from a sunrise over a lake, a flock of birds rising suddenly from a grove of trees, a colorful bug hiking across a leaf, or a glance out your kitchen window on a stormy afternoon. It comes, too, from moments of grief, anxiety and tragedy. It’s everywhere. It’s everything.