Skip Navigation
Fine Craft Collective

Colleen Riley

19 years ago, I took an evening pottery class at the Northern Clay Center and was hooked. Life has taken a few twists and turns since then, but through the years I became more and more committed to clay. Now I find myself 'living the dream' on 14 acres just north of Northfield, working full-time in a studio adjacent to the house, with a talented husband and two wonderful dogs.

My pots capture and reveal the ever-changing patterns and textures of my surroundings, such as a carpet of leaves in the woods, a birds feathers, or the contours of a newly plowed field.I enjoy making functional pieces that are elegant, yet comfortable for use and inviting to the touch.I am influenced by the graceful, fluid forms of early 20th-century European furnishings, metalwork and decorative objects, and the lightheartedness of mid-century textiles and design.Carving adds depth and provides contrast with the clays smooth surface.To keep the designs fresh and lines softened, I carve freehand at leatherhard stage.It is an intimate part of the process I particularly enjoy.Soda firing enhances the textures and gives a rich, tactile quality to the clays surface.It adds an element of surprise that keeps the work interesting and ensures that each piece is lively and unique.