Lincoln, CA. Twenty years ago, I was wide-eyed, wandering through the dusty halls of the Gladding McBean factory, mesmerized. This wasn't just any factory; it was the stage for "Feats of Clay," a celebration of all things ceramic. The towering beehive kiln, a testament to industrial ingenuity, dwarfed everything else. But it was the artistry that truly stole the show. Clay in the hands of masters became swirling galaxies, lifelike creatures, and vessels that hummed with a quiet beauty.
My parents, fresh off a move back to Sacramento, had brought me along. That day sparked a fire within me, a fascination with clay that would take hold years later and find expression in my own work.
Fast forward to 2024. "Feats of Clay" is back, and guess what? One of my pieces ("Somewhere Along the Way", above) is gracing the very same event that ignited my passion all those years ago. It's a full-circle moment and a comforting echo of that long-ago visit. I can't help but think Mom would be beaming with pride. This one's for you, Mom.
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