Jolene Nichols

Every day I am inspired by what I see.  As artists, we take notice of the details missed by many.  Some days I might notice an interesting pattern within a cityscape or the textural quality of a leaf.  Later, this visual information might be used within my artwork; I might impress that same pattern or carve that texture into the side of a pot.   I am currently working with rugged earthy textures juxtaposed to vivid splashes of color. I layer and overlap multiple glazes on each piece.  My pottery is all original hand-thrown stoneware that is oxidation fired.  I examine each piece closely on its form and functionality.  In my opinion, not only does the piece need to work aesthetically but it also needs to be functional.     

I received my B.A. in Art Education with an emphasis in drawing and painting from the University of Northern Iowa.  I did take one pottery class at UNI but was never able to fit anymore in to my schedule.  It wasn’t until ten years ago that I started taking a real interest in making pots.  I am a wife and a stay at home mom of two small children, so finding the time to make pots can become quite a challenge.  When I do make it into my studio, the time spent in there is very therapeutic. I think that can be said of all art.

I currently live in Estherville, Iowa with my husband and two children.