Samantha Gaudette is a functional potter crafting a curated collection of practical, handbuilt stoneware ceramics in Limington, Maine. In 2023 during introductory handbuilding courses with ceramicists Lori Watts and Anne Willett at Portland Pottery, she discovered a profound sense of grounded creativity.

A defining characteristic of Winterberry Clay is the exclusive use of handbuilding techniques, a venerable method of pottery making predating the potter's wheel. Samantha, the artisan behind Winterberry Clay, particularly favors the distinct process of slab building. This involves the careful rolling of clay into uniform slabs, the precise cutting of templates, and the deliberate joining of edges to form each unique shape. Truly, the practice of handbuilding fosters not only physical skill but also cultivates mindfulness and focused intention.

Artist Statement

I savor the small, simple moments in life – watching the steam rising from my first cup of coffee in the morning, the earthy smell permeating after an unexpected rain shower, the hissing sound of snow as it falls during a storm.  As such, my handbuilt pottery explores the intersection of the organic and the minimal.  Each piece is intentionally understated, allowing the inherent beauty of the clay and the subtle nuances of form to speak for themselves. Rooted in function, these objects are designed for everyday use, bringing a touch of handcrafted warmth to daily rituals.

Color plays a vital role, as I often draw inspiration from the muted and vibrant hues found in the natural world around me. I strive to capture a sense of quiet movement in the gentle curves and subtle asymmetries, hinting at the fluidity of the natural world. The texture of the clay, sometimes smooth and sometimes intentionally rough, adds a tactile dimension, inviting touch and connection.

Ultimately, these pieces are imbued with a sense of joy. The process of creation, from shaping the raw earth to witnessing the transformation in the kiln, fills each object with an energy that feels alive. There is a playful element in the slight imperfections and the intuitive shaping, a reminder of the human hand that brought them into being.  It is my hope that the pieces I make today will be enjoyed for many years to come.