I believe that pottery is as important today as ever as we work to end the throw-away culture and find sustainable and beautiful ways to live on our planet.

Everything offered for sale by Venner Ceramics was made by me. I have created, exhibited and sold ceramic objects for many years and love knowing that my work is enjoyed and appreciated by others. Making something you are proud of, then having it go out into the world is a real joy.

Only my best work is put up for sale; there are no seconds in my Etsy shop. My ceramics are high-fired and durable. They do not contain lead or barium. They are useful, safe and beautiful!

Each object I make is unique. You may detect the influence of Scandinavian or Asian ceramics on my style – areas that greatly interest me. I also feel it is important to maintain some of the naturalness and joy of the process while creating an elegant form. I want each object I make to capture a feeling that goes beyond the material.

I first experienced clay very young at the art center in Kalamazoo. Growing up, I was the artist in the family with wonderful support from my parents. At Alma College I majored in art, then moved to Ann Arbor and completed my MFA at Eastern Michigan University under the tutelage of John Loree. I consider time under his guidance, along with that of co-faculty member Susanne Stephenson, to be one of the most fortunate periods in my life.

I have been honored in numerous ways over the years. My work has been featured in Ceramics Monthly several times, included in books, shown in many competitions and exhibitions and received awards and recognition. I am a proud recipient of a Michigan Council for the Arts Creative Artists grant. I have operated my own studio for more than three decades.

I have always believed in community engagement and giving back and done so as president of the Michigan Potters Association, president of the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair, member of the board of directors at Pewabic Pottery among other organizations.