I have been called to be a potter for my life's work. I can't imagine being truely satisfied doing anything else. I am still excited about my work and look foreward to creating the next piece. I feel lucky that I am involved in a craft that is ancient yet current, primitive yet modern. Pottery is an art form that communicates in a language that is unspoken, yet universally understood.
Making pottery requires both physical and mental abilities woven together in a creative dance. I believe that the best work happens when I least expect it. Through hard work and perseverance, a few good pieces will emerge.
For many years I used a woodburning kiln to complete the process of my work. I am now however, trying to achieve the effects of the woodfiring process with a more intentional approach, using a gas reduction kiln. I like to create effects that relate to historical pottery and colors and textures found in nature. Now as a studio potter I try to produce a body of work that is both substantial and marketable. I enjoy the unpretentious nature of traditional utilitarian forms. I try to instill in each piece, a presence that is calm and simple, and alive with purpose. I am happy when the work invites one to touch or handle it. I am most satisfied when I can provide another person with a piece of work that is inspired by a creative passion and that can fulfill the need deep within all of us that pottery can provide.

Education:
M.F.A. 1981 Ceramics,Witchita State University, Witchita, KS
B.A. 1976 Art, Luther College, Decorah, IA

Additional Training:
1978-1979 Postgraduate work in ceramics-University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
1975-1976 Ceramics, South Bear School, Decorah, IA

Proffessional:
1999- Studio Potter, Decorah, IA
1994-1999 Studio Potter, Marion, IA
1999-2000 Assistant Professor, Ceramics, Luther College, Decorah, IA
1997-1998 Instructor, Kirkwood Community College, Cedar Rapids, IA
1992-1994 Village Potter, Holden Village, Chelan,WA
1987-1992 Assistant Professor, Ceramics, University of Florida,
Gainesville, FL
1981-1987 Adjunct Instructor, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL

Workshops and Lectures:
1994 10 week workshop, Banff Centre, Alberta, Canada
1992 Instuctor, Fall Concentration, Penland School of Crafts, Penland, NC
1991 Panel Moderator, "Woodfiring in America", NCECA, Tempe, AZ
1987 Guest Artist, Anderson Ranch, two week session with David Shaner
1983-1984 Adjunct Instructor, Valencia Community College, Orlando, FL