Handmade Pottery by Patty Cornelius Pottery

ABOUT ME

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I’ve had a connection to clay since I was a child playing in the creek near my house. The banks were made of clay and we could dig it out and shape it into creations we would leave to dry on the rocks. There was something about the feel of the earth in my hands that stayed with me. I didn’t realize back then that this love for shaping things from the ground would grow into such a big part of my life.

It wasn’t until I took a ceramics class in college that I really dove into pottery. What started as a fun elective quickly turned into a passion. I loved that I could take an idea from my head and turn it into something real—something that people could actually use. There’s something special about creating pieces that are not only beautiful but also functional. That balance of form and function is what drives my work, and it’s what keeps me excited about what I do every day.

Nature is a huge influence on my work. I’m always inspired by the shapes, textures, and patterns I see around me, whether it’s the grain of wood, the way water flows, or the colors of a sunset. I try to bring that organic, earthy feel into each piece I make. Studio pottery is perfectly imperfect, it’s marks a record of a moment in time, it’s final result a combination of heat, the atmosphere and how molecules are bonded into glass. The best part is, every piece turns out a little different—no two are ever exactly alike, which I think is part of the magic of handmade pottery.

For me, pottery is about more than just making something pretty. It’s about creating pieces that people can enjoy in their everyday lives—whether it’s a favorite mug for your morning coffee or a special bowl for family meals. I love the idea that my work becomes a part of someone’s daily routine, bringing a little bit of beauty and intention into those simple moments.

At the end of the day, I want my pottery to make people smile. I want it to feel good in your hands and be something you look forward to using, whether it’s for a quiet moment of reflection or sharing time with loved ones.

Ceramic Whale Tale Sculpture
Handmade Clay Pottery Cottages