Gallery
New out of the kiln
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Ceramic Jewelry
About
I currently live in Midlothian, VA, a stone's throw away from Richmond. Chicago is my hometown and with my love of pottery, I took my first pottery class in 2002 at Lillstreet Gallery. I moved to Anchorage, Alaska in 2003, where I continued to work with clay while I maintained a career as a networking certification instructor. Now retired, I can dedicate my time to what I love to do; make ceramic art. I am a clay guild member of the Visual Arts Center of Richmond (VIS ARTS).
I work primarily making functional ceramic pieces at VIS ARTS and my home studio. My work can be seen at Crossroads Art Center, Richmond, VA and at Bella Arte Gallery, Midlothian, VA
Ceramic Courses/Classes/Workshops that have influenced my work:
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Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts, Gatlinburg, TN
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Michael Sherrill
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Linda Arbuckle
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Penland School of Crafts, Bakersville, NC
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Liz Zlot Summerfield
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Martin Lantin
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University of Alaska, Anchorage, AK
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Melissa Mencini
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Andrew Martin
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Akio Takamori
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Sandra Blain
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Richard Nodkin
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Steve Godfrey
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Pottery by Ernestine
Pottery
Artistry
New Out of the Kiln
What are glazes?
Glazes are made up of minerals and natural chemicals that melt into a glass coating that is fused onto the ceramic surface during the firing process.
Can I put my pottery in the microwave?
Yes! Pottery is dishwasher, microwave, and oven safe. It's durable and will hold up to normal use, however I don't recommend extreme temperature changes, such as putting your piece directly into the oven from the freezer.
Do the glazes contain lead?
No, I only use lead-free and food-safe glazes. However, all raku pottery is NOT food safe and does not hold water. Any raku piece I sell will be clearly marked and identified.
Will the bottom scratch scratch a table?
While it would be foolish to say it won't scrach, I take extra measures to have smooth bottoms and take great pride in a finished bottom. I personally have glass tables and my pottery doesn not scratch it.
Can I put my pottery in the dishwasher?
You sure can. Although some people prefer to handwash their handmade pieces, you are more than welcome to put your functional pieces in the dishwasher. You can also use them in the oven (not the broiler), microwave and freezer.
Is it pottery or ceramic?
All pottery is clay. All ceramics is clay, but glazes, silica, and zirconium oxide may also be turned into ceramics. With that being said, there are different types of clay; earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain. But, when it comes down to it, it all comes from mud.
Can I use my pottery daily?
Absolutely YES. I make functional pottery for everyday use. While they are beautiful and colorful, I stack them in the cabinet along side everything else. Even our four-legged friends like drinking and eating out of my pottery, so don't forget them.
Are your pieces stamped with your name?
No, I individually hand sign each piecing using a brush and stain before it's bisque fired.