I was like most kids growing up in th 50s and 60s. Playing in the dirt was a daily affair. And, like most kids, I grew out of that stage and spent more time in school and reading. Very little time was left for sand and dirt, and toys sat quietly in a closet collecting dust and reminiscing about the past.
While in elementary school I discovered drawing. I seemed to have had a knack for it and it became part of me. As I grew older, I discovered art history, particularly Renaissance art, as well as classical music (I guess I wasn’t like the average child after all). I also enjoyed math. When it came time for college I had two options: math or art. I choose art and everything started there.
I graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in Art, a minor in Drawing and Design, and an emphasis in pottery. Along with the degree came a teaching certificate …and our first child.
After college, I worked at a local manufacturing company in their employee development department. This, along with one more child, put a hold on any artistic aspirations.
After our four kids graduated, I left the corporate world, I once again began to play in mud. There were a few setbacks, but I went full steam ahead.
As a professional potter, I strive to (1) produce work that brings delight to the eye and Tranquility to the spirit; (2)use Simplicity of form, and Beauty in my hand-mixed glazes; (3) include touches of Whimsy; and (4) celebrate variety, as each piece is unique in color, shape, or tilt. Beautiful simplicity.
