Baerbel Sztumerski

I have always loved pottery and decided in 1993 to learn how to throw pots. I enrolled in a class at Oakland Community College and studied under Henry Tanaka. At OCC Auburn Hills we fired to cone 10 in reduction, which results in beautiful earth tone colors, and every firing has different results due to the kiln atmosphere.

I really like throwing functional pieces. They remind me of sitting around a table, having good food, company, and fun. Working in clay is very satisfying and addictive. At this time I am working with slip, which is a liquid clay. I apply many layers of the slip to achieve color and then finish the piece with a clear glaze.

I continue my education by attending workshops that are given by well known potters.
Over the years I have watched Ruthann Tudball, Malcolm Davis, Jeff Oestreich, Tony Clennell and each time came a way with a better understanding and a different approach to creating
forms in clay.