Judy Hoffman-Bolton

Judy Hoffman-Bolton

Pottery and the art of ceramics sparked my interest in 1975 when I enrolled in the first of what would evolve into many classes and workshops at the local community college. Over the years it has developed into a passionate, engaging and fulfilling part of my life. I take pleasure in the meditative rhythm of the wheel, the contemplative exercise and in-the-moment opportunity to create something unique and esthetically pleasing out of a simple piece of clay.

My primary focus is on functional ceramics. It's gratifying to produce pieces that become integrated into someone's daily living--mugs that beg to be filled and held, jars holding treasures with lids that want lifted for a peek inside, bowls and trays complimenting the foods being served.

In decorating clay, I utilize tools for carving or handmade stamps to create unique textures on the surface of the clay at the leather hard stage, as well as wax resist brushwork patterns on unglazed bisque surfaces, or between multiple glazes, prior to the final glaze firing. I draw inspiration from other potters and appreciate this community of artists with creative ideas and innovative applications and techniques.

Over the years it has been rewarding to provide donations to support worthwhile fundraising efforts such as the Potter's Bowl, Habitat, Council for the Arts, Land Conservancy Art Auction and many other regional fundraisers. I joined the Nicodemus Center for Ceramic Arts in 2004 and work between my home studio in Smithsburg MD and the studio at the Ceramics Art Center in Waynesboro PA. In the past few years, I have ventured into wood and soda firing to keep the flames of creativity fired up.