Erica Bingham’s Pottery
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Twenty-five years ago I
took an eight week class in throwing pots. I liked it very much, and my dad
constructed an electric potter’s wheel for me. I used it a little, then ran
out of clay and did not have access to a kiln. Since I was working long
hours, and performing folk music (on a twelve string guitar), potting was not
a priority. Then I got married, moved north, had a baby, and you know the
rest- life happens! Ten years later, recognizing a lack of local folk
musicians, I decided to pursue pottery. With six private lessons from Joanne
Schieffelin under my belt, I fell in love with clay. Of course it was
challenging and frustrating, but so satisfying when I made something
beautiful. After five years, my mom, a professional artist (Dorothy V.
Riley), encouraged me to take a 12 day long intensive class. Wow- new
challenges appeared and my brain got a real workout! I continue to take short
intensive classes to learn new techniques; my work gradually changes, as
these are mastered.
Functional, everyday
pots are always fun to make, but I also love playful, decorative aspects of
design. Being greatly influenced by the wild forms seen in nature, I strive
to combine utility with playfulness. |
