Pottery that is functional and aesthetically pleasing. Specific wear that I enjoy making is called nerikomi or marbled clay. I find it reminds me of geology such as malachite and sandstone. I also like the primal nature of just clay, my hands, and water when I make the pinch pots for my up-comeing art installation to honor the memory of my Dad as the family suffers through his Alzheimer's. Some of the best art I "make" is when I can teach someone to create art themselves.

When I'm working for myself, nature and zen meditation are where my inspiration comes from. When I'm working for someone, I try to see from other people's eyes and dreams, then create a work for them. More personally, my journey through my Dad having Alzheimer's has inspired me to make pinch pots. While I was watching him, he grabbed a cup I was making and left his hand print in the finished piece. This was the last thing he will make, and inspired me to make an art installation call "Touch"

I would use the money to make sure my pottery studio stays open and possibly expands. I'd also buy a whole lot of glazes. Most importantly I'd try to reach more people who might want a "last thing" made by their relative who is suffering from Alzheimer's. The class illustrates the recreation of what happen between my Dad and I. Vote daily to help me honor my Dad's memory through art!