I spent two weeks at The Hambidge Center in July 2025, working in their Margaret Studio for Ceramics. It was an incredible experience, and I highly recommend this residency program to any creative minds. They offer a variety of specialized spaces, including studios for music, dance, weaving, and more.

https://www.hambidge.org/

While I was there, I was captivated by the local red clay with mica—its rich colors and the unique blend of coarse sand and smooth texture were mesmerizing. Some artists mentioned that the clay lacked plasticity, so I collected samples from several spots around the property to compare their qualities. One sample, taken from the Anagama kiln yard, seemed workable enough for my communal experimentation.

My plan was to invite my fellow resident artists to create small clay objects using the Hambidge clay. This would allow me to observe how workable the clay body was, and give them a chance to take home something genuinely Hambidge as a keepsake. After a communal dinner, everyone gathered together and joyfully muddied their hands with the clay! That was the spirit of collaboration and experimentation.

All the pieces are bone dry and ready for pit fire.

I was lucky that they have a very safe firing environment with a metal fire ring with lid. All the pieces were buried under dry leaves and pine needles, then logs were placed on top to make fire.

The results from our first group firing were a success—nothing broke! Each piece survived the firing intact and was returned to its creator, a tangible memory of our shared exploration with Hambidge clay.

This piece was created by fellow resident artist Zoe, using Hambidge clay and mica she personally collected from Betty’s Creek on the property.

Thank you, Zoe—not only for embracing the challenge with such enthusiasm, but for showing us how your creativity instinctively seizes every opportunity. You have a remarkable gift for transforming what’s within reach into something meaningful and new. Your open-mindedness reminds me how vital it is to stay curious, uplifted, and receptive to fresh ideas.

For me, this is a powerful reminder to keep both my mind and arms open to new possibilities as a creator. You are truly a role model, Zoe!

Photo credit: Zoe Cohen

The second round of experimentation brought together a slightly different group, including composers, videographers, and writers. We had a wonderful time crafting clay pieces together—laughing, wrestling with the material, and sharing conversations that wandered across many topics. Some sipped wine, others enjoyed Kombucha, and the evening unfolded with creativity and connection.

After the second fire. Almost every piece survived.

Overall, the project was a success—both in testing Hambidge clay for my future work and in creating a communal experience with fellow resident artists.

For me, it was another opportunity to inspire people to reconnect with the earth and our shared history through clay, and to reflect on the creative possibilities woven into everyday life. I hope to continue this local clay project with as many people as possible, inviting them to discover the incredible material right beneath our feet and to experience the joy of making art with our own hands, together.