Artist Statement: As a ceramist, I’ve developed a passion for creating inanimate objects in the form of clay. Clay gives me the freedom to work with my hands and build beautiful works of art all at the same time. Why go out and buy a mug when you can make one yourself? Due to the chemical nature of clay and how it’s matured, each work of art is unique and one of a kind. From hand building to wheel throwing, low fire to hire fire glazes and ultimately how the clay is fired, I’ve dabbled in a little of it all. Featured here is a set of pit fired pottery. It's the oldest form of maturing clay and produces beautiful, unpredictable finishes! The coloring on these pieces were obtained using various chemicals and materials (salt-soaked corn husks, seaweed, copper, capers, dried manure, coffee grounds, wood shavings, sodium carbonate, salts, metals, etc) then placed in an underground chamber and set on fire. After the pit has cooled, the pottery is unearthed from the ash, unveiling its fascinating, atmospheric finish! Thank you for taking the time to learn my story and view my work!