WHO ARE YOU, WHERE ARE YOU FROM, & WHAT DO YOU DO?
I am a ceramic artist and entrepreneur located in Augusta, Georgia. I started my business, Third Eye Ceramics, after graduating with a BFA from Augusta University in 2017. The vessels I create are individual and are full of personality. The forms may be similar but their imperfect perfections, characteristics of the maker's hands, make them uniquely beautiful. I create utilitarian pots and a line of ceramic sculptures that I call my pot people series. I hope that all of my artwork and ceramicware creates a unique aesthetic experience that enriches the lives of whoever experiences them.  I also teach classes at the Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art which allows me an outlet in which to share the joy of this wonderful art craft. 

DESCRIBE YOUR PROCESS.
My process starts on the potter's wheel where I throw multiple forms. I create objects such as wine glasses, pint glasses, dinner plates, bowls, and more. I decorate my pottery by using techniques like sgraffito or applying stamps that create depth and texture on the surface. I finish my ceramicware with handmade formulated glazes that in conjunction with the surface create unique effects and enhance the aesthetic form.  My ceramics sculpture series called Pot People begin by throwing vessels of various shapes and sizes on the potter's wheel. I sculpt humanoid faces on the surface of the vessel and later attach hand built limbs. These limbs are created to express movement through gesture and creates individuality between sculptures. Once finished, I name these vessels based on what I believe their inner personal individuality represent.  

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
I explore inspiration in my craft through different avenues of making, thinking, and exploring. My artwork is characterized by influences in my everyday experiences, my childhood during the '90s, my desire to travel, and interactions made with people. The development of my craft and art making practices are enriched by expeditions I take while traveling to different cities in the United States and traveling abroad to other countries. The connections I made with people during my worldly experiences fosters unique opportunities of learning, sharing, exploring and developing mindfulness. My southern roots and the allure of ceramic face jugs inspired me to create my ceramic sculpture series and improve my craft on the potter's wheel. My art making practice, exuberated by these unique collective experiences, prevents stagnancy in my artwork and creates moxie in exploring new themes that may arise in my artistic aesthetic. 

FUN FACT ABOUT YOU.
Since I was a young child, I knew I wanted to be an artist. It's amazing to me that I never lost site of my dream no matter how hard some challenges in my life were.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT DOWNTOWN AUGUSTA.
My favorite thing about downtown is how engaging the arts culture is with the community. I love hearing about new art projects and the strides the city is taking to fund more projects like it. The art in our city has such a positive impact on mental health and well being in our community. I'm grateful that we have a community that wants to engage and explore art as a fundamental part of our development. 

WHY DO YOU LOVE TO DESIGN, CREATE + MAKE?
I love creating and developing the surface of my pottery. The more I let go the more I explore and have fun. 

WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD SHARE WITH OTHER ARTISTS + MAKERS?
Remember that everything starts with a healthy heart, a open mind, and a sound soul. The process and lifestyle of being an artist is a constant hustle and shouldn't be rushed. Take everything on step at a time and remember to enjoy the flow, ask for help, and learn every day.