I just love pottery. There's something so unique about each hand-made piece, bringing artistry and beauty to everyday objects. This month I am excited to share the work of Beth Eaton, a potter based in Milwaukee.

Her work is so very creative and unique - I've never seen pottery like hers. Her incredible use of color and texture make each piece of pottery a work of art. We were lucky enough to sit down and talk with Beth about her pottery, colors, and inspiration. Here's what she had to say...

WE:  Please tell us about your art...
 

BE: I primarily work in functional pottery. My style is unique because my process is not typical of most functional potters. I start with a ball of clay but instead of using a potter’s wheel, I roll out big slabs and then manipulate them by cutting and folding to create useful objects.

My mugs are called burrito mugs because they are folded at the bottom like a burrito. I don't smooth my seams so the creation process is still apparent.  By using a "frankenstitch" to tie two ends  together, I am adding to the humor of my imperfect pieces.

I start with a white clay body because it really serves as a perfect canvas for the colors.  I use a lot of color in my pieces, often up to 20 different colors
on a single piece. To further embellish the surface, I have collected a lot of different stamps over the years.  Many have a Japanese theme or other humorous characters. I combine images for aesthetic appeal but also to give each piece its own story. No two pieces are ever the same. When I open up my kiln it’s a joy and surprise every time.

WE:  How/when did you start becoming an artist? 

BE: I was always creating as a kid and have always enjoyed time to myself to make things.  I went to an alternative high school that had an emphasis on the arts, so in college I just naturally gravitated to the arts. I decided to start with ceramics and was instantly in  love with clay. I feel like clay is a great life partner, the possibilities are infinite.

WE:  What do you draw inspiration from?

BE: My inspiration comes from everyday life. It could be a new recipe I love or a dress with a great fabric. It's so nice to be in love with a medium that inspires my daily living.

WE: Where are your favorite places to create art?

BE: I primarily work from my home studio.  It's attached to my garage so I can be close to my home and kids but separate enough that I do get some alone time to work.

WE: What do you enjoy creating most?

BE: I really enjoy making art that people use. I love when people tell me
they drink out of my mug every morning.  I like that because, personally, I am  at my happiest around coffee time.

WE: How can readers find and purchase your art?
 

BE: On my web site, eatonpottery.com, you can shop through my etsy link, find info on Art Fairs, retail locations, as well as open studio events including my annual seconds sale.

WE: Is there anything else you'd like to share with us?

BE: During the summer, I teach both adult and kids classes at my home.  I also teach classes at The Sharon Lynne Wilson center in Brookfield.  Class schedules will be posted on my web site.

WE: Thanks so much, Beth! Your work is so incredibly creative and beautiful!

For more information, and to see more of Beth's pottery, please see:
www.eatonpottery.com or head to one of the galleries that represent her work:

Aethetics Orinda,CA
Art & Soul, Wauwatosa WI
Beans And Barley, Milwaukee WI
Geneva Art Pottery, Lake Geneva WI
Lincoln Art Pottery, WI
Milwaukee Art Museum Gift Shop, WI
Murray Hill Pottery Works, Milwaukee WI
Paper Boat Gallery, Bayview WI
Three Graces, Milwaukee WI
Watts, Milwaukee WI

All photos courtesy and copyright of Beth Eaton, Eaton Pottery.