Hook 'Em In | Rita Vali | Episode 1103

Francine Hampson and John Ried are the owners of Mudpuppy Studios, a production pottery studio producing functional ware. The studio wares are mainly thrown on the potter’s wheel with alterations and additions done by hand building. The clay is high fire stoneware fired in a 15cu. ft. gas kiln introducing salt/soda at 2350F. The effects are spectacular but unpredictable. The wares are sold locally on Salt Spring Island through the Waterfront Gallery or Artcraft/ Wintercraft shows. https://ThePottersCast.com/1104

Rita Vali creates joyful pottery that blends modern design with a mid-century vibe, inspired by her love of the intricate details she finds in nature. Rita makes her pottery with others in mind, as she believes people are connected through the use and display of thoughtfully hand-crafted objects. Rita's career as an artist is made full by teaching various classes where she shares my craft. https://ThePottersCast.com/1103

Yesha Panchal was born in Gujarat, India, and is currently living in Suwanee, GA. Yesha earned her BFA with a concentration in ceramics at Georgia State University in Atlanta, GA. Yesha is currently a ceramics studio manager at the Hudgens Center for Art in Duluth, GA, an organizer of the Clay to Table, serves on the board of NCECA, and is a maker. Yesha's article “Working Potter” and work were published in “Thoughts on Collaboration” in the June/July/August 2022 issue of Ceramics Monthly https://ThePottersCast.com/1102

As a sensitive and intuitive person, working with clay is a perfect fit for John Ellefson. Clay slabs are minutely sensitive to the slightest touch, allowing John to create the subtle forms that he loves. It’s incredibly satisfying for John to breathe life into clay through touch. https://ThePottersCast.com/1101

Erin Louise Clancy is a ceramic artist based in Queens, New York, with over 25 years of restaurant experience and a BFA in printmaking. Focusing on collaborative custom work, Erin's pieces unite these influences with functional design. http://ThePottersCast.com/1100

Rachael Sewell is a ceramic artist and candle maker based near Bristol, in the South West of England. After graduating in 2020 with a degree in Buying and Merchandising, Rachael combined her business acumen with her creative passions, launching a line of sculptural candles in 2021. Driven by a desire to explore new mediums, Rachael soon discovered her love for pottery during an intensive course, which ignited her current practice in ceramics. Rachael’s work is a playful yet thoughtful exploration of artistry and everyday utility. https://ThePottersCast.com/1099

Jennifer Waverek has 30+ years of experience in brand strategy and graphic design, working both in-house and as a principle partner in her own creative agency. Jennifer is worked for fortune 500 companies such as Martha Stewart Living, Clinique, and Donna Karan to local boutiques and art collectives. Jennifer holds a BA in Visual Arts and Art History from Columbia University. Jennifer has shown work in the disciplines of painting, printmaking, graphic design, and handbuilt ceramics. Jennifer is the creative director and brand strategist behind BKLYN CLAY. https://ThePottersCast.com/1098

Until age 40 Andrew Cooke was a car body repair technician until he was forced out of his career due to being diagnosed with arthritis. Andrew then went back to art as therapy and, after a foundation in fine and applied art, Andrew completed his degree in 2013 in University of Ulster in Belfast. https://ThePottersCast.com/1097

Terri Kern received her MFA in 1991. Terri left teaching to open her own studio. Terri has exhibited internationally, been featured in ceramics publications, received awards, artist grants, nominations, started a teaching website, had work on the Great Pottery Throw Down, and is now showing at the Taft Museum of Art. https://ThePottersCast.com/1096

Hannah Simpson Studio, established in 2020, serves as a creative haven for Hannah Simpson, providing an escape from the demands of everyday life. For Hannah, creativity has long been a therapeutic outlet, allowing her to navigate and control her emotions. With her work, Hannah aims to spread joy to others. https://ThePottersCast.com/1095