I first became interested in wheel thrown pottery in the Summer of 1973.  I distinctly recall my fascination with the work going on in a little independent potter's studio I happened upon while vacationing in the coastal town of Carpenteria, California.  Due to career demands, I wasn't able to  begin seriously studying how to make pottery until 1990, when I attended  evening classes taught by Sherry Stuart at Angelo State University (San Angelo, Texas).  Since moving to Austin in 1991, I have studied with Capp Brooks, Janet Coplin-Dellefave, Stan Irvin, and Michael Biechlin, and completed advanced workshops with Michael Simon, Ellen Shankin, and Stephen Hill.

In 2001,  I was selected to participate in the 17th International Workshop in Ceramic Art in Tokoname (Japan), an intensive five week studio and wood firing experience held each summer. In addition to general cultural exchange, IWCAT provided a chance for me to meet and learn from the Tokoname potters (young and old), learn about kiln construction, and study the works of ancient masters in the Aichi Prefectual Museum in Seto.  During a rare weekend off, I traveled to Shigaraki and spent the day with Shiho Kanzaki-san, the modern master whom I most admire. 

Note: To gain a better appreciation for the tradition, techniques, and beauty of wood-fired ceramics, please visit "Recording The Flame," produced at the 2nd International Wood Fire Conference. Kanzaki-san is one of the featured speakers.

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