“My life has taught me to always be more curious than afraid . . .”

‍Hi—I’m Amy, and I make all of the pots for Pine Zen Pottery. I started my ceramics journey when my youngest son started kindergarten in 2015, and I’ve been flying by the seat of my pants and making it up as I go ever since.

You might ask, why do I make the pots I make?

Most importantly, I want the pots that I make to become integral parts of our lives—offering moments of presence and connection. With each vessel that I craft from raw clay, I consider the idea of making the world a bit smaller and bringing people together.  Whether that is at the dinner table sharing a meal, or a quiet morning moment with a cup of coffee or tea, it is my belief that the objects we surround ourselves with should spark joy.  To this end, I utilize layers of pattern and color to create functional wares that I hope will become modern heirlooms. 

My inspirations range from vintage fabrics and mid-century modern patterns, to fashion and the natural world.  Each pot starts as a flat slab of clay that presents itself as a blank canvas for my designs.  I approach this “canvas” with 3 considerations in mind—pattern, texture, and color. I use these design details to create a visually interesting surface that is playful and invites you to touch. More than anything, I find joy through the act of creating, and it is my hope that you find joy when using the work I’ve made.

I have no formal ceramics training. My education has come from the many generous potters who have shared their knowledge in workshops, YouTube videos and books.  Mostly, I am a deeply curious person who loves to learn new things! I may have found clay later in life, but it has changed me more than I could have imagined, and made me more myself than before.  Ceramics has shown me a way to engage more fully with the world—and given me a way to form connections in a way that nothing else before has done.  I continue to live my life inspired by a quote I once heard many years ago--It encourages us to “always be more curious than afraid”.  (quote attributed to Ishi—aka “the last Indian”).  This quote continues to motivate me to take risks, never stop learning, and to be open minded in all areas of my life. 

Thank you for taking a moment to get to know me better!

Here is a little moment of zen from one of my favorite Lake Superior beaches along the North Shore of Minnesota. Enjoy!

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