Colleen Riley
I strive to make functional pieces that are elegant, yet comfortable for use and inviting to the touch. My work celebrates the historic ceramic tradition of employing decorative botanical themes, while making an intimate connection to my surroundings. The raw piece serves as a canvas to build imagery, layers, textures and color. Atmospheric firing gives a rich, aged quality to the clay’s surface. It adds an element of surprise, challenging me and ensuring that each piece is lively and unique.
I fell in love with ceramics 30 years ago, when on a whim I took the first class ever offered at the Northern Clay Center in Minneapolis. Fifteen years later I transitioned from a graphic design career to full-time ceramic artist, living and working in rural southern Dakota County.
From the beginning I have pursued a non-traditional approach to ceramics learning. I have worked with accomplished artists in classes, intensive workshops and informal mentorships. I feel fortunate to work in a region with many talented ceramic artists – benefiting from their generosity, camaraderie and inspiration.
