Elly Dotseth

I knew I wanted to be a potter when I visited Scott Creek Pottery near Santa Cruz California in 1971. It was a co-op farm where if you worked on the farm, you could learn to be a professional potter.

The first clay class I ever took was through the recreation center at UCSB. Next I took a summer class through the art department for credit. I honed my wheel throwing technique taking classes from Laura Peterson through the Grossmont Adult Education program.  I progressed  from there to Grossmont College where I took every pottery class they had to offer! I couldn't get enough! I continue to learn more as each year passes, thanks in great part to the educational workshops hosted by the Clay Artists of San Diego. I have been an active member of the Clay Artists of San Diego since about 1985.

All of my ceramic art is either thrown on the potter's wheel, or sculpted by hand. Creating beautiful forms in clay gives me the feeling of a spiritual connection to the earth, and all of the potters who have come before me. My BA in Cultural Anthropology has heavily influenced  my  work with a rich variety of ethnically inspired design.

In my  studio I use an electric kiln and generally fire my work to cone 5 stoneware temperatures. I love to work with bright colors, and an electric kiln works best for them.  All of my functional ware is fired to State of California Health Standards, is lead free, and microwave safe. I am happy to take custom orders.

My work is available for sale. You may contact me directly using the link on my Home Page