I was born in 2000 and consider myself a self-taught potter, interdisciplinary artist, teacher, arts administrator, nature enthusiast, lover, friend, and very sensitive person. I enjoy getting my hands dirty and being annoying.

Much of what I hope to obtain each time I go into the studio are the therapeutic aspects that clay has to offer. As such, my process of making is largely intuitive, unplanned, and spontaneous—to me, the studio is a place for the inner child to wander. I grew up in a small rural town in Michigan with little exposure to the arts, so nowadays I find it very important to connect to those around me; I draw inspiration heavily from other artists in the community studio I am a part of, as well as the people in my life whom I deeply love and admire. To practice pottery is to demand community, help, and love, much of which I felt disconnected from for many years, and exist in opposition to what the modern world has trained us for. 

Understanding clay as material is another vital part of my practice, and I find myself constantly exploring the intersection of technical skill and personal artistic expression. Within my practice recently, I have been in conversation with the individuality and character inherent in each object, which for me can be found in the variations made from layering slips and glazes, brushstrokes, finger marks, and organic indents. I use as little tools as possible, relying mainly on my hands connecting with the materials. I embrace the subtleties in each pot as a reminder of what it feels like to be human, as record and proof of existence; I hope for my pots to say “Look. We were here. Please see me for all that I am.”

Concurrently, I hope for my work to complement and enhance the hums and routines of everyday life. I strive to create pieces which carefully meld function and aesthetic in a playful dance. A fine hand-crafted cup to drink a morning coffee or tea makes my day feel a little softer, and I only wish to replicate that feeling for others.

Most importantly, I find so much joy in being covered in mud. As an extremely sensitive person, my work will forever and always center on what it means to feel.

If you see something you’re interested in purchasing, want to set up a private lesson with me, or would like to connect in another way, please feel free to contact me.

https://www.instagram.com/beckthepotter/

beckarnett11@gmail.com