CHARLESTON - Potter and ceramics artist Krista Cameron makes it look so easy - and oh, so fun!
The owner of Krista Cameron Pottery near Charleston Lake is not only an admired local potter but a sought-after and respected teacher. She hadn't planned on being either and credits a class registration slip-up 25 years ago for where she is in life today.
"I thought a class on the history of pottery was an academic course but when I got there it was totally hands-on. I was instantly hooked," says Krista.
"The clay is so soft and yet you can turn it into something you will have forever," Krista says. She still has the first two pieces she made in that class. Her passion for pottery soon had her striving to learn more and eventually leaving her factory job to become her own boss.
Creating your own business, particularly with art, is tough. Early on Krista was inspired by the late Jean Marr, a renowned local potter and teacher. It was Jean who talked Krista into participating in local art shows, including a 1000 Islands Parkway tour.
"She pushed me to sell my work. She was my hero," says Krista. Another champion is Diana B. Earle, who taught Krista to have confidence in the value of her work. There is also a great camaraderie among potters that continues to inspire Krista.
"That's the thing about working with clay. You end up being part of a creative community and that is such a bonus," Krista says.
People of all ages from throughout the region flock to Krista's classes - from beginner to advanced - at her studio near Athens. She also offers classes at St. Lawrence College in Brockville and at Amaranth Stoneware Studio in Kingston.
"I find teaching fascinating because when you watch someone get the hang of it, it is such a wonderful feeling," she says. "I like to encourage them and tell them they will get there."
Krista specializes in many pottery techniques, including Raku, smoke firing, underglaze decoration and sprinkling garden sculpture. Many of her pieces are created using mid-fire dinnerware glaze. She does commission work, participates in some shows and displays her work at Casual Living in Brockville.
Learn more about Krista Cameron Pottery, her work and her classes by visiting the
website. Check out her
Pinterest,
Instagram and
Facebook pages. Send her an
email or give her a call at 613-340-9671. The studio is located at 582 County Park Road.
