About Jo
Long an admirer of pottery, I began studying ceramics locally at Claymakers Studio in Durham in 2003.
I've studied under and been heavily influenced by Ronan Peterson, Susan Filley, Deborah Harris, Meredith
Brickell, Marty Fielding, Nick Joerling, Cynthia Bringle, Gay Smith and Suze Lindsay. In 2007, I established
a home studio.
There is such a rich clay tradition in North Carolina and so many accomplished potters locally, that I feel
fortunate to be a part of this very vibrant community. My goal as an artist is to embody the joy and
sense of play I feel when working with clay whether I'm creating functional pots for everyday use or
decorative pieces for the home. Most of my work is wheel thrown using high fire stoneware clay. Designs
are created with slip and glazes and stamps and are typically abstract, sometimes primitive, and
incorporate elements of nature. I am attracted to variations in form and strive for clean lines and
designs that spatially fit each pot. The final glazing is done by layering shino glazes or by firing in a soda
kiln. All of my functional pots are glazed with food safe glazes, and are dishwasher and microwave safe.
Each pot is unique. I do series of similar design, but no two are ever exactly the same and the designs
are always changing. Every piece is created with attention to the way it feels in your hand or on your
lips, to the visual pleasure it evokes, as well as its function. I want you to experience pleasure every
time you touch it day after day, year after year.
Affiliations:
ClayWorks Guild
Triangle Potters Guild
National Potters Council
North Carolina Pottery Center