I have always been attracted to pottery, to this day it is the first thing I look for in a shop. I can remember thinking at an early age, someday I'm going to learn how to do that.
In 1974 I enrolled in my first pottery class in Chapel Hill, NC. I was hooked, within 6 months I bought my first kickwheel and spent every free second I had throwing or hand building pots.
For the next 25 years I worked many different jobs to earn a living while doing pottery in my spare time. Other than that first set of classes I took in Chapel Hill I have been self taught. The generous sharing of other potters and craft people, the help of many books, and of course, alot of trial and error have all helped me along my way.
My work has evolved over the years to what it is today. The one theme that has always been there is function. Every pot has a use, from pie plates and bowls to bread baskets and salad hands. I like knowing people use my work in their everyday lives.
In 1999 I took the big step and began making a living doing what I love-making pots. A native of Laconia, NH, my huband and I have recently moved to Campton, NH, where I have a studio in our home. It doesn't get much better than this, I get to do what I love everyday. I thank everyone who has supported me through the years.
Joyce Tardif Bouley
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