Describe the first piece you made in clay that you thought had potential/felt like your own style: Several years ago, while working in another studio, I discovered some colored stains tucked away in the corner. I used them to make colored clay and created a small dish that, for the first time, felt truly like my own style.
What are you inspired by? I’m inspired by wildflowers on the street, the shifting colors of the sky, and the surrounding scenery in my everyday environment.
What is your process for finding/designing new forms? I often find new ideas through walking, traveling, or participating in international residencies. These moments of change and movement naturally bring fresh forms into my work.
Best piece of advice you ever received? Even if you start from zero, if you persist long enough, your practice will eventually have the strength and presence of an old, established shop.
Best advice you can give to other potters? Do what you love, and try to keep going with it!
Describe your studio: I have a small but well-equipped studio. The kiln room is on the first floor, with a shared space I sometimes use for teaching. My studio is upstairs with one large table—perfect for my handbuilding process, since most of my work only requires a single workspace.
Best thing about your studio? Its small size makes it easy to clean and maintain. The downside, however, is that it’s often too small to store finished pieces, so I’m constantly reorganizing.
Wish list for your studio? In the future, I’d love to move into a larger space with a dedicated storage area for finished work.
Describe a typical day or session in the studio: After breakfast and coffee, I begin making work in the studio. Around noon, I cook a simple lunch and then continue working. In the evening, I take a walk, return to wrap things up, and finish the day’s work.
We understand your email address is private. You will receive emails and newsletters from Ceramic Arts Network. We will never share your information except as outlined in our privacy policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Please enjoy this complimentary article for the month.
For unlimited access to Pottery Making Illustrated premium content, please subscribe.
We understand your email address is private. You will receive emails and newsletters from Ceramic Arts Network. We will never share your information except as outlined in our privacy policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Subscribe to Pottery Making Illustrated
Firing temperature: 2246°F (1230°C)
Atmosphere: Oxidation, electric
Surface treatment: Unglazed inlay
Forming method: Slab building
Favorite tool/tools in your toolbox? Polymer ribs
Website: www.reneeceramics.com
Social media: Instagram @renee_ceramics
Describe the first piece you made in clay that you thought had potential/felt like your own style: Several years ago, while working in another studio, I discovered some colored stains tucked away in the corner. I used them to make colored clay and created a small dish that, for the first time, felt truly like my own style.
What are you inspired by? I’m inspired by wildflowers on the street, the shifting colors of the sky, and the surrounding scenery in my everyday environment.
What is your process for finding/designing new forms? I often find new ideas through walking, traveling, or participating in international residencies. These moments of change and movement naturally bring fresh forms into my work.
Best piece of advice you ever received? Even if you start from zero, if you persist long enough, your practice will eventually have the strength and presence of an old, established shop.
Best advice you can give to other potters? Do what you love, and try to keep going with it!
Describe your studio: I have a small but well-equipped studio. The kiln room is on the first floor, with a shared space I sometimes use for teaching. My studio is upstairs with one large table—perfect for my handbuilding process, since most of my work only requires a single workspace.
Best thing about your studio? Its small size makes it easy to clean and maintain. The downside, however, is that it’s often too small to store finished pieces, so I’m constantly reorganizing.
Wish list for your studio? In the future, I’d love to move into a larger space with a dedicated storage area for finished work.
Describe a typical day or session in the studio: After breakfast and coffee, I begin making work in the studio. Around noon, I cook a simple lunch and then continue working. In the evening, I take a walk, return to wrap things up, and finish the day’s work.
November/December 2025: Table of Contents
Must-Reads from Pottery Making Illustrated
Unfamiliar with any terms in this article? Browse our glossary of pottery terms!
Click the cover image to return to the Table of Contents