The art of Pre-Columbian Native Americans and the work of ancient cultures around the world have been a strong influence on my work. In particular, I am drawn to the qualities of primitive vessels that were created by the process of pressing a layer of clay onto the interior surface of a basket. The interior pattern of the basket becomes the exterior surface of the clay vessel once fired. This ingenious method created vessels with three strong elements: form, pattern, and texture. These are the focus of my work and nature's endless combinations of these elements is my inspiration.

About My Work

After I throw each pottery vessel on the potter's wheel, and it dries leather-hard, I trim its rough edges and indent the exterior geometrically with a variety of handmade steel tools.
 
In a single vessel, the number of indentations can vary from one thousand to five thousand, each individually placed by hand. Thus two vessels are identical. Each vessel is given further character by carving and incising the rim, again in the designs reflecting Pre--Columbian patterns and form.
 
When the vessel is completely dry, it is bisque fired and placed in an outdoor raku kiln. There it is heated until it is glowing red. At that point it is removed with tongs and is buried in sawdust. This part of the process is similar to the ancient, simple, pit firing methodology used not only by Native Americans but by native peoples all over the world. It is in the sawdust pit that my vessels take on their typical, soft, carbon darkness.

Care Instructions

These vessels are made of a tough stoneware clay body. They are very durable. Periodically dust the surface using a clean dry shoe shine brush. Gently sweep the dust out of the indentations. Canned air works well also. All my vessels are dishwasher safe, and glazed work is food and microwave safe as well. With care, my creations will last for generations.