Artist statement…

I enjoy the process of wheel-thrown pots, working with clay and seeing where it takes me. I try to find a balance between simple forms enriched with surface detail. I find they can be illuminated by ash in the wood kiln,or otherwise embellished with layering glazes and wax resist in gas reduction. I enjoy the nature of clay, and occasionally let the nature of the material come through, while I also appreciate the clay as a canvas for decoration. My passion with clay began at UGA studying ceramics with Ron Meyers, Michael Simon, and Andy Nasisse, though I continue to find inspiration through books about Hamada and the traditions of Japanese and Chinese ceramics. I also studied painting at the University, which continues to enrich the painterly qualities of my work. Modern artists like Matisse, Mondrian, Rousseau, and Klee indirectly influence my approach to color and design with glazes, whereas Gottlieb and Pollock have always deepened my appreciation for the things that I do not have control over. My work is constantly evolving thanks to the solid community of potters and their honest feedback.

Background: Born in Moscow, Idaho. Grew up in Tifton, GA, graduated from Tift County High in 1980. Graduated from UGA in 1990, BFA double major in Drawing & Painting and Art & Crafts. Working with clay since 1988, started with handbuilding and later Gradually started working primarily on the wheel. Studio Assistant at Good Dirt since 2002.