About Me
For all my life, I have been inspired by art. This motivated me to bachelor's degree in archaeology and art history, and a master's in art history. However, I found my true calling was to create with my hands.
In 1998, after a year of jewelry-making courses at the University of New Mexico, I enrolled in a pottery class and found my passion. In 2005 I started Orna Pottery, and later that year was invited to join the artist community of Pike Place Market, in downtown Seattle.
My work is inspired by the rich natural environment of the Pacific Northwest, and by pottery-making traditions from around the world.
The Production Process
I handcraft all of my pottery in my backyard studio. My pieces are made from stoneware and porcelain, using different forming techniques including throwing and hand building. My style and designs continue to evolve over the years. Until 2013 I had engraved most of my thrown pieces; nowadays, I prefer to press leaves onto the clay, incorporating a direct imprint of nature into the design.
I fire my work in an electric kiln to about 2160° F (Cone 5-6). All the clay and glazes I use are food safe. All pieces are oven and microwave safe, and safe for most dishwashers.
