|
I make functional pottery that is meant to be used and
enjoyed. My work in clay has evolved into two styles. Like the two sides
of a coin, quite different in outward appearance but with the same
intrinsic value. Part of me is a folk artist capturing on clay, the
everyday images of the family cats. But my love of nature and gardening
is reflected in my heavily carved and textured vessels.
Handmade objects have an intrinsic value that no machine
made product can achieve. I make functional pottery because I hope to
transfer to you, some of the pleasure I’ve experienced in creating a
lasting treasure.
For over 30 years I’ve operated a pottery studio at our home
in Medical Lake Washington. I received my Bachelor of Science Degree in
Studio Art from the University of Wisconsin. I apprenticed as a studio
potter with Marv Doering and Graduated from Eastern Washington
University I’ve taught Art in public schools, private schools and at the
university level. I’ve visited potters in England, France, Greece, and
Honduras. But, I studied the work of both contemporary and ancient
potters. The unifying theme since the first potter touched clay is to
make the perfect pot you’ve just got to touch and enjoy. I have been a
member of the Pottery Place Plus since 1984.
They say the clay remembers the hands that made it. Clay has it’s own
small voice, and sings. It is a small sound and always far away, but
they say sometimes you hear it. It’s song has lasted for thousands of
years.
-Byrd Baylor
| 
