What music, audiobooks, or podcasts are filling your studio airtime lately?

I've really gotten into podcasts as of late! I’m commuting so much currently, so I’ve been running through episodes of Red Clay Rambler, for Flux Sake, and other Brickyard Network Casts while I drive.

What new ceramics have you added to your collection this year that you can’t live without now?

Easy! Well, I don't have it in hand as of yet, but I've commissioned an amphora from Sid Henderson. I followed them on IG, @sid.henderson.art and love their mix of traditional amphora forms mixed with homoerotica and storytelling.

In an alternate life, what would you be doing?

This is my alternate life hahaha, and I'm so thankful for it. Previously, I was an Army Field Artillery Officer, and I loved it - but making pots, and being able to grow a beard wins out!

Share the most significant thing that happened to you and your work/studio practice in 2024?

I was accepted as a long term resident at The Clay Studio in Philly. These next three years will help me grow and cultivate the business side of my art practice.

What big plans do you have for 2025?

I am building a veterans program at The Clay Studio and we start our first classes this summer, around May. The premise is veterans teaching veterans ceramics, for free. We've partnered with the Department of Veterans Affairs to bring both participants as well as Recreational therapists to the "table". Im really excited to see how it unfolds. @veterans_ceramic_arts_network on Instagram if you’d like to follow along.

What dream residency (either real or fantasy) would you like to attend?

I’m very interested in the Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park Residency in Japan. I have a friend who's attended and we've talked at length about it. Who knows? fingers crossed. I’ve also recently learned of a Veteran ceramic residency in Oregon called the LH Project, so I’ve added that to my sights.

Share your favorite (go to potluck) recipe? What ceramic piece do you serve it in?  

Im a terrible cook, just being honest, I can never follow a recipe for more than 15 seconds. But my latest go-to has been my own heavily amended version of a chick pea shakshuka. I'm loading it up with mushrooms, chicken, spices, and anything else in my fridge that sounds good! I love serving it up in some wood or soda fired ramen bowls, I think the wider bowl really lets all the ingredients show themselves off!

Why Clay?

I can see myself in the clay. Like not physically - but a lump of clay can be made into almost anything, with some effort. And likewise, with some effort I can become a better version of myself, for tomorrow.