The Teachers

Celena Hudgens

Artist’s Statement

My favorite pottery that I do is thrown on a Leach-style treadle wheel, which replaces the regular movement of the electric wheel with the rhythm of the body. Once thrown on the wheel, many of the forms are altered and manipulated. Self-designed, hand-carved stamps may be applied to add distinctive texture and enhance the pot’s appearance. The pots are glazed by a combination of dunking and spraying. Firing takes place in an oxidation atmosphere of an electric kiln. The result is unique, functional pottery that brings beauty into our kitchens and living spaces.

Biography

My love for clay started at Winthrop University where I earned my BFA in the Ceramic Arts in 1992. In 1994 I moved to Cincinnati Ohio where I became involved with the Cincinnati Clay Alliance and was also active in the Art Guild. I taught Throwing and Handbuilding classes there and worked in a local gallery. In 1999 I moved to South Carolina and set up a home studio and taught classes at the Clayground in Charlotte. In 2005 I took over the Clayground and started my own business that is now The Whirling Wheel. In addition to teaching I display in galleries and sell at art fairs. I participate in the Carolina Claymatters Guild and go to many pottery workshops, including a course in Italy in 2005.

Kyla Hall

I'm Kyla Hall, an up-and-coming artist in the Charlotte area. I officially began my journey as an artist in 2001 at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, working toward my Bachelors of Fine Arts in Ceramics. I worked primarily in abstract ceramic sculpture, then moved onto the wheel. I also enjoy a variety of mediums including photography, printmaking,and fiber. I am currently creating pottery and sculptures at the Whirling Wheel studio in Charlotte. I am expanding my portfolio while finding my own style in the art world. In an attempt to branch out, I am selling some of work at local shops and showing in some of Charlotte's fine art galleries.

I never miss a chance to see art all around me-in nature, in people, in every day things. I want my art to reflect what is going on around me and inside me. Making art is a way for me to connect and reconnect with the world, myself and God. Some recurrent motif's in my artwork are mood disorders, nature, and Christian principles. I hope to express God's love through my art and bring glory to Him, as He has blessed me with a creative spirit.

I live in Harrisburg, NC with my husband, Daryl and our cat, Oreo, and husky, Zephyr.