Michael Ball
Maker/Collector Statement
Cinder glazed and likely made by Burlon Craig at the Reinhardt Pottery, this Five Gallon Churn was the first piece of Catawba Valley pottery I owned. I bought it from David Springs in 1999 for ten dollars. When I took this pot home, the tradition of Catawba Valley pottery felt more accessible to me.
I don't keep many pots I make. I rarely display my pottery around the house. I am happiest making pottery. The 15th Anniversary Jug I made is from my last firing. I was making miniatures and five gallon jugs at the same time. I walked two miles in the snow to decorate it. Sometimes I see my pottery in collections and remember the day or circumstance it was made in. They are my travelers.