BiographyFor the past several years Mary has been exploring the use of coils and slabs to craft a series of vessels. These techniques have been in use since humans first started using clay. The pots are shaped by hand using simple tools. They are informed by observations of the natural environment from which the raw materials are derived. Her pottery reveals the hand and the heart of the maker and invites the viewer to touch the piece in order to fully appreciate it. She uses textures and glazes that emphasize the forms and atmospheric firings with wood or soda to further enhance the character of each pot. Seams and attachments offer the viewer clues about the structure and fabrication of the vessels. The most compelling details are deliberately imperfect. Mary’s study of ceramics has included work at Mesa Art Center, Mesa Community College, American Museum of Ceramic Arts, Clay Artists in the Vineyard, Ancient Pottery workshops and San Diego Potter’s Guild. Her work has been included in juried shows including VIVA, a 4-person show at Joshua Tree Art Gallery, Joshua Tree, CA; Shermer Arizona Arts Festival, Scottsdale, AZ; All Art Arizona - Art Intersection, Gilbert, AZ and Clay Artists at the Vineyard, Rancho Bernardo, CA Her professional experience includes more than thirty years in both private sector and government work in marketing and management. Her career included overseas assignments in Latin America and Europe.