I have thrown pots at Odyssey for more than 25 years!
I moved to Asheville in the spring of 1971. With the exception of a decade of law school and law practice in New Orleans, I have lived here ever since.
And, I have loved living here ever since.
My family also spends time on North Carolina's Outer Banks. We are extremely fortunate to have the best of the mountains and of the sea here at home.
My work reflects the shades and landscapes of North Carolina's mountains to our sea.
I throw each piece on the wheel using porcelain clay, then create texture by adding ripples of slip (very wet clay) to the form. I let each piece dry slowly, and bisque fire it. I then spray several layers of each of five or more different glazes onto each pot, and fire each again in an electric kiln. The glazes work together with the added texture to evoke the ever-changing shades of the mountains and of the sea.
I make pots for people to use. And, I recognize the influence of numerous knowledgeable and generous teachers in each piece I create.
Given the vagaries inherent in the practice of law, I appreciate that each pot begins with me centering myself and the clay. I also appreciate at least the illusion of control over the clay in forming the curve, the lines, the edges and the whole of a pot.
I look forward to meeting you in the Odyssey Studios. I hope you, too, enjoy this series: From the Mountains To the Sea. Thanks!
Sheila Lambert