Heather Whaley
Knoxville, Tennessee
Giving Clay Pottery
Artist Statement
In an attempt to combine a love of charity work with a love of ceramic arts, Giving Clay Pottery was founded. The business motto is beautiful art and giving hearts. At Giving Clay Pottery a portion of all sales is donated to charities that we love and support. I take inspiration from living in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains and the surrounding landscape. I solely handbuild each piece of art and each piece is unique.
Studio Description
I have a private studio in my converted garage.
What type of clay do you use?
Mid-fire stoneware by Highwater Clay
What temperature do you fire to?
Cone 5–6
What is your primary forming method?
Handbuilding
What is your favorite surface treatment?
Glaze, underglaze transfers, and carving
Do you make any of your own tools?
I have several homemade tools. My personal favorite is one I created from the lid of a deodorant container.
What one word would you use to describe your work?
Vibrant
What is your favorite thing about your studio?
My huge sink.
What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without?
My clay roller, and the huge sink
What are your top three studio wishes?
More space, air conditioning, and a sealed floor
How do you save money on materials and supplies?
Repurpose everything and go to the dollar store first
How do you recharge creatively?
Audible
Do you have any DIY tips for studio efficiency?
Keep it clean from the beginning or you’ll never catch back up
What challenges have you given yourself to overcome?
To take my time and slow down
What did your first piece look like?
It was a terrible little sad mug. I was so proud of it. The glaze was too thin and crazed. I didn’t smooth the rough spots out of the clay. I have it on display in my shop.
What ceramic superpower would you have and why?
I would love to make hundreds of pieces in a day.
What area of skill do you most look to other artists to learn?
Consistent form and business savviness
What is on your studio playlist?
A little of everything
Why do you create art?
Because it’s my gift and gifts are meant to be shared.
If you could change one property of clay, what would it be?
That it would dry exactly when I wanted it to.
