We are located in Grayson County, Virginia, home of Virginia's highest peaks, Mt. Rogers and Whitetop. We are surrounded by the beauty of the mountains and only minutes from the New River so the out-of-doors is a constant in our lives and an inspiration in our work.
We came to pottery after careers in music (we both graduated from the Manhattan School of Music in New York city) and woodworking. One common thread running through these occupations is the use of the hands. Playing musical instruments, working with wood, and pottery are all forms of expression through the hands.
The skills required of a potter are varied: design, the techniques of wheel throwing, handbuilding, moldmaking, glaze formulation and application are supported by the less obvious needs for the skills of a carpenter and electrician to maintain the shop and its equipment, and general business abilities. We find that our varied background is often an asset as we move from one aspect of our work to another.
We have been consistently attracted to the variety and depth that can be created in oxidation firing by layering glazes (we use electric kilns with sophisticated computerized controllers). The results are variable, sometimes a frustration, sometimes a delight. There is always a little suspense prior to opening a kiln as we wonder if this firing will move us toward our goal of creating glazes that interpret and reflect the natural world around us.
Our design process is sometimes individual, sometimes a collaboration. Fortunately our tastes are usually similar enough that we each can identify with all of our pieces. We specialize in fine crafts including handmade bowls and other ceramic one of a kind items. When we are not making our studio pottery, we are often playing music, hiking in the mountains, or gardening.
We welcome visitors to tour our studio and shop in our showroom. Our hours are irregular, so please call ahead.