Pottery

The Cow Series

I started making pottery in 1998 with my friends, John and Michelle. I have made many things, including the above Cow Series. I go to a pottery class once a week for three hours each week. It is at a private home in downtown Ottawa. When I made these pieces I did not fully intend them to go together, I simply gave them a cow pattern to match my kitchen decorations. I started with the spoon rest, then, since I did not have a teapot, I made it next. Since every teapot needs mugs to have tea in, I made them too.

I have also made several vases, bowls and trinkets. My favorites are my "Man in the Tub", my "Duckpond" jewellery holder and my "Rainbow Casserole Dish".

The pottery class I go to starts out as a 10 week class where you learn the basic handbuilding methods and then you make a few things of your own. The class is run by a local artisan, Barbara. It is a very informal and fun class. After the first 10 weeks, If you want to keep going, you pay for studio time and materials and make whatever you want. Barbara is always there, willing to give help or advice. She has a kiln in her basement, where the class is held. She gets the clay and glazes from a nearby shop.