Ann makes a variety of pottery styles. She uses stoneware clay to create functional and decorative pieces. The ceramic clay and glazes are food safe, microwave safe and dishwasher safe.
Form following function has been a time honored beginning to Ann's creations. Vessels are thrown on a potter's wheel or formed by hand. But this is just the beginning. To further enhance the owner's pleasure when using a pot or displaying it, she draws inspiration from nature. This is reflected in a variety of decorating techniques. Leaf impressions are used to enhance and compliment the form. Animals or plants are carved directly on the surface. Sculpted elements may be added.
After the pots are formed and decorated, they are slowly dried. Ann fires her pieces two times. The pottery is first bisque fired. After cooling, the pieces are ready for glazing. This is done by dipping, pouring or brushing. The carved or impressed elements are often wiped free of surrounding glaze resulting in a contrast between the unglazed clay and the glazed areas . The pottery is then glaze fired to its maturing point of 2200 degrees fahrenheit.
"Working in clay comes naturally to me. I also love to garden - yet another way to get my hands dirty and actively participate in the transformation of nature's elements into beautiful and useful creations. I often grow plants specifically to use in pottery projects and to inspire my art. Being able to intertwine and blend two of my loves is very satisfying. And it seems to speak to my customers as well."
Ann has shown her pottery at a variety of exhibits including Missouri Department of Conservation Nature Centers, Elizabeth Rozier Gallery, The Vine Gallery, Columbia Art league and the Boone County art Show. She often does joint exhibits and shows with her husband Lloyd, an accomplished art photograper and musician. Together they use the name 'Awenaturel', reflecting both of the artists' reverence to and inspiration from nature.
Links to Awe Naturel and Lloyd Grotjan click on images below.
