My
work in clay has evolved over the past ten years but I am still amazed how a
lump of mud could be turned into something graceful and elegant with just the
twirl of a wheel and my hands pulling and moving it into beautiful shapes.
I am
a functional potter. I believe that
functional pottery while not only being utilitarian can also be a work of
art. Finding that balance between these
qualities can be difficult as there is no real formula for doing so. This presents me with challenges; and that
inspires me to create a vessel that can be labeled as utilitarian art. These parameters I have defined for myself
feeds my creativity.
Several
years ago, I began teaching. Mike was my
first student. Not only my partner, he
has found his love of pottery as well. A
little more on the wild side, he challenges himself by creating the useful as
well as the unusual; trying many new ideas and forms.
Located
on top of a hill in Maine, NY; Hilltop Pottery was opened to students in
2004. Our students enjoy the warm and
encouraging atmosphere we have created.
We have the belief that we have a gift to share with others.
Working with clay feeds my spirit, encourages my
creativity and creates peace within myself.
As
the great potter Michael Cardew said, “Machine-made
pots, though practical and functional, often fail to feed the human spirit”
Welcome to Hilltop Pottery!