About Plays in Mud Pottery

My gallery and studio are located in Asheville, NC, where I pour my passion into creating pottery. One of the most frequently asked questions is how did I become interested in pottery? There wasn’t a specific beginning—it was simply a way of life growing up, surrounded by handmade objects. But if you’re asking when I knew I wanted to become a potter, that moment came while helping my dad, master chair maker and blacksmith Lyle Wheeler, at a craft show in Banner Elk, NC. North Carolina heritage potters Glen and Lula Bolick were there, demonstrating on a kick wheel outside. I was captivated! I spent hours watching Lula, completely mesmerized. Eventually, she invited me to touch the pot she was shaping. The moment my finger slid across the clay, I felt a spark in my soul—I knew I wanted to make pottery. That moment set me on the path I’ve been crafting ever since. In today’s busy, tech-filled world, I believe pottery grounds us, reconnecting us to the present moment. Using a handmade mug or bowl becomes an act of mindfulness, a small ritual in our daily lives. I design and use my own small handmade stamps to create intricate, one-of-a-kind patterns that no other potter has. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted, with small details—like decorated bottoms and embellished mug handles—designed to elevate the experience of using my pottery. These thoughtful touches create an intimate and beautiful connection with every item I make, transforming everyday moments into somethingRead their story