Artist Statement

     I am retired U.S. Army officer, disabled veteran and a ceramics artist.  I am currently studying for a Bachelor of Fine Arts in ceramics at the University of Maine Presque Isle.  Most of my work is functional or utilitarian although some of my pieces are a bit abstract.  Working with clay is like therapy, freeing my mind.  I like to sit down at the wheel without much of a plan and just work, letting the piece come about freely as if the clay speaks to me.  
     My main influences come from artists and smaller studios during the 1800s to early 1900s American Art Pottery period, such as George Edgar Ohr, the Mad Potter from Biloxi.  I am fascinated with the transformation of clay from a raw material, being formed by my hands, and fired to become a finished piece that could potentially last thousands of years.  I feel fulfilled as a potter when someone uses or displays my pieces, even if it just a favorite cereal bowl or coffee mug.
     I look forward to learning new techniques, gaining more experience, refining my creative expression, and defining myself further as an artist.  My goal is to have my own studio by the time I graduate.