First, I would like to thank my parents, who have always encouraged me to follow my dreams. They taught me that hard work, passion, and perseverance are the key ingredients to turning a talent into a career. I wasn’t sure how they would react when I switched my major from art education to clay, but when I called home to say, “I know what I want to do with the rest of my life: CERAMICS!” they were incredibly supportive. Which was amazing, considering I was making lumpy pots at the time! Nonetheless, they proudly displayed my paperweights in their home, drove me to my first NCECA because I was nervous, and attended every show opening thereafter. Mom and Dad, thank you for believing in me.

To my professors, especially Lee Rexrode, thank you for recognizing that spark within me and nurturing my passion for ceramics. To Linda Cordell, for pushing me to explore surface and move beyond the barriers of my comfort zone. To the graduate students who so kindly took the time to answer my many questions and guide me through my first ever firings, namely Jason Stockman, who never asked me to put a quarter in his questions jar, even though I picked his brain daily!

To Kristen Muscaro-Winters and Travis Winters, who encouraged me to become a short-term resident at Odyssey Clayworks. My life blossomed because of their unwavering support. Special thanks to Gabriel Kline, the director of Odyssey Clayworks, who believed in me enough to hold a long-term residency position and has been nothing short of an exceptional “boss,” mentor, and friend. It’s not an exaggeration to say the residency changed me exponentially as an artist, an educator, and a person. Also to the staff and students of Odyssey, who so patiently allowed for the shooting of this book to happen without complaining that the lights were out and instead offered their excitement and encouragement!

To Kristen Keiffer, Deb Schwartzkopf, and Jason Burnett, for allowing me to assist their workshops, opening me up to a new level of growth and connection within the clay community. For these experiences I extend my deepest gratitude. Also to the contributing artists, thank you, thank you! Your work inspires me, and I am honored and humbled to include you in this book. Special thanks to Mark Arnold for being a super pal and for writing the forward—I can’t thank him enough.

To my countless students over the years, thank you for allowing me to teach you. I am inspired by your perseverance and willingness to jump right in. The laughter, conversations, and explorations have enriched my life.

To Jack Sorokin, the incredibly talented and humble photographer who shot the photos for this book. Jack is nothing short of a rock star. He captured the essence of this book perfectly and brought a level of patience unmatched by many. I am so grateful for his flexibility and for showing up at my house to shoot the kiln-loading section as I last-minute panicked packing green pots to transport to Odyssey!

Special thanks to the team at Quarto Publishing, especially Thom OHearn, the exceptional editor who believed in me. This book would not be possible without his guidance, encouragement, and gentle patience as I found a way to milk each deadline.

Lastly, I would like to thank my partner, Micah Yaple, who never stopped believing in me despite my best efforts to drive him absolutely bonkers! He remained patient and vigilant in his encouragement. Thanks for dealing with my handwritten chapters all over the house, the late nights, and coming home from work early to help recover the files I lost. I love you, and I am so grateful for your unconditional support!