Grace Markley
Almost everything we come into contact with today is mass-produced. The sheer joy of making a ceramic object by hand, working with the material itself, is a constant source of inspiration to me — a reminder that there is beauty in forms that are turned and considered by hand. Handmade forms are an act of rebellion from bulk, unimaginative production — and a statement about the value of handmade objects.
A bag of clay inspires me to look at techniques which challenge construction; seeing ordinary objects as unusual shapes; asking how far I can push the clay and still create viable, and hopefully beautiful, items for the table and the home.
When I work with clay, it’s as though my hands are singing. I hope my work carries the feel of the song. Taking time to refine a design or an idea in various ways using different styles and techniques is a way to stay connected with my creativity and to share ideas with the many friends I’ve made through this journey. It’s my hope that this work will become a part of family memories; to be given as gifts, passed down, treasured and shared.
Contact Grace with any questions or to inquire about a custom commission.
The Gallery below features current and previous work. Enjoy!
Looking for something extra special? I'm happy to talk with you about a custom project.
In addition to commissions, let me know if you're a potter who would like to share your work and hone your skills.
I look forward to hearing from you!
Some fresh garlic and basil, virgin olive oil, grated parmesan cheese and pine nuts. Blend well. Presto! Pesto!
This hand-crafted garlic pot helps keep your garlic fresh and ready for your favorite recipe. The air vents are the secret.
Custom made-to-order, just for you!
Contact Grace to request a quote.
PHOTO: ART101.COM
2015 - 2019
My experience with clay led me to be a Senior Content Editor and Senior Specialist for an international online auction house where I was responsible for authenticating ceramic art, Art Pottery and Oriental Rugs consigned to the company for online auction sales.
While at the auction house, I wrote the full detailed documentation on both Art Pottery and Oriental Rugs still used by the company’s editors today. It was my love of pattern and color learned through working with clay that afforded me the opportunity to learn and teach others the lexicon and types of fine handwoven rugs consigned to the company. The history, symbolism and design aesthetics of this dying art form inspire me constantly. It was through that work that I was certified as a rug appraiser by ORRA, the Oriental Rug Retailers of America.
2011 –2018
Artist and Instructor
Whistle Stop Clay Works, Loveland, OH
Beginning Wheel
Intermediate Wheel
Advanced Wheel
Functional Handbuilding
Cocktails & Clay Instructor
(one night events featuring a single handbuilding project)
Private Events Instructor
Workshop Instructor: “Woven Baskets”
Whistle Stop Clay Works, Loveland, OH
2013
Workshop Instructor: “Majolica Decoration”
Whistle Stop Clay Works, Loveland, OH
2012
Guest Lecturer, Log Cabin Herb Society
“Mud as Life Lesson”, Owensville, OH
2009
Workshop Instructor: “Slip Casting for Image Transfer”
Pinckneyville Community Arts Center
Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation Department, Norcross, GA
2006 – 2010
Instructor, Pinckneyville Community Arts Center
Beginning Wheel
Functional Handbuilding
Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation Department, Norcross, GA
I stand on the shoulders of giants. I’ve been fortunate to have learned technique by taking intensive workshops with some of the finest clay wranglers in the country. I admire and respect these fine artists so very much. They shared their joy of working with myriad ceramic materials, tools and techniques and inspire me every day to keep creating.
Akira Satake
Kohiki Technique
Liz Zlot Summerfield
Soft Slab Handbuilding, Forming Techniques and Embellishment
Richard Notkin
Ceramic Art/Sculptural Teapots
Linda Arbuckle
Majolica Techniques and Decorating with Underglazes
Paul Andrew Wandless
Image Transfer on Clay
Kathy King
Sgraffito Techniques
Sandi Pierantozzi
Functional Soft Slabs
Marko Fields
Textured Vessels
Kathy Triplett
Large Scale Slabs/Public Installations
Ben Carter
Design for the Soft Surface
Luba Sharapan and Erik Haagensen
Graphic Treatments, Handbuilding Technique, Firing and Wheel Throwing Technique
Missy McCormick
Glazing and Forming Techniques