From concept to design to final firing, my process for making functional pottery requires an intimate relationship with both preparation and chance. While bringing a vision to life I embrace the challenge of creating a smooth surface free of unintentional marks. This element of control is balanced by the unknowns of firing in a wood and soda kiln. Simple, strong design features enable me to create illustrative surfaces that highlight the natural colors resulting from the firing. Each piece is subject to the whim of wood ash, flame, and soda vapor. In the end the combination of intentionally crafted forms and an uncontrolled atmosphere for surface design brings my work to life.