I was introduced to clay 50 years ago at the University of Texas at Arlington by Dr. Jim Henderson, aka Papa Bear. I was attracted to clay because of its immediate response when touched. I was also awestruck by the firing process with kilns like a moth to a flame when I realized how they worked. I continued my education to get two advanced degrees (MA & MFA) in ceramics at the University of Dallas under Dan Hammett. As a painting major in undergraduate studies, I was influenced by color and texture in my works. This led to my fascination with stoneware clay for its durability and versatility, and the effects of glazes on it in a reduction atmosphere. I am filled with passion to create forms in clay. I am currently investigating various textures on classical forms, different methods of applying those textures, and the effects of glazes on those textures on stoneware clay.
