About Dave

Clay, “an earthy material that is plastic when moist but hard when fired, that is composed mainly of fine particles of hydrous aluminum silicates and other minerals, and that is used for brick, tile, and pottery”, that’s from the Merriam Webster dictionary.
 
Really for me it’s a fine-grained dirt that when water is added you can have a lot of fun with. I always liked playing in the dirt. What you can make with clay is remarkable, from a simple pinch pot to a beautiful bowl thrown on the wheel. You can also handbuild with slabs and coils, all of which I have done, and enjoy doing.
 
I have always been interested in pottery that has a function, but my understanding of this statement has changed, because of the people that I have seen explore, embrace, and create with clay in our studio. Functional ware is something like a mug or a plate you make that serves a purpose, and yes, it’s nice to drink out of a mug you made. The transformation of this statement ”pottery that has a function” is that, clay itself serves a function beyond shapes and sculptures that are created with it. Just as in any medium an artist finds themselves moved to create. What I have found is that the wonders of clay have a certain calming effect on people, bringing change or healing in their lives.
 
You can make just about anything in clay, and I love making just about anything. The real joy for me are the students who sit next to me on the wheel or across from me at the table, and they are creating and exploring the wonders of clay just as much as I am. Sharing my pottery is as much a joy as sharing how it’s done. So come find your creative side at Wildstone ceramics.

​Dave