I was born and raised in Budapest, Hungary, where I received my formal education and PhD in Biology. I came to Canada in 1989 to work in a research institute. I stumbled upon clay by chance, and the engagement became so strong, it ended my career as a biologist. In retrospect, it was the best thing that ever could have happened to me. I joined a potters guild in 1992 and met a group of women who shared a common passion for raku. This was my choice of firing for many years. Raku provided me with the finished surface that best reflected my artistic vision for my sculptural pieces. It was with this group of women that I had my first exhibition. I set up a home studio where I have worked alone for the past 14 years. I connect with other potters at shows, conferences, exhibitions and workshops. In 2003 I participated in a workshop where we built and fired a wood kiln. After the first firing, I was hooked as it added a whole new colour to my palette. In 2006 I traveled with 3 fellow North American wood fire potters to participate in a residency program at the International Ceramic Studio in Kecskemet Hungary. It was another great experience. Upon returning to Canada, I could hardly wait to get back to my studio to make new pieces for my next firing. I was thrilled to be part of a wood firing collective here in Canada, where we not only fire together, but we laugh, connect, socialize and enjoy each others company. We had our first exhibition in 2007 and titled it “Women Who Wood”. Working alone for 14 years has been wonderful, but it has been lonely. In 2007, I decided to join The Williams Mill Art Centre where I enjoy the company and community of other full time artists. I continue to be inspired by all things living. Perhaps it is my background in biology that makes the human form and behaviour most intriguing to me. I strive to bring the gesture of human connections and relationships to life in my work. |
