MARIA GREEN
I was born in the Netherlands and moved to Canada in 1952 at the age of 5. It has been my home ever since. In 1992 after suffering a terrible personal loss, pottery came into my life. While driving one day, my mind lost in thought, I was brought back to reality by a ‘Pottery Sale’ sign. I began to think about how I’d always wanted to try making pottery but had never had the time. So I took the leap – and my clay journey began.
After several courses with an instructor, Ernie Watkins, I was intrigued but frustrated! How could something that looked so graceful and effortless be so difficult? More lessons with Daphne Zeitz and workshops along the way fueled my growing interest. I kept at it casually for several years until finally the moment arrived when I really wanted to get serious about pottery. Despite many struggles with my kiln and the clay I have persevered, because I love it.
I work with a white mid-fire clay ‘CKK6’ and am the proud owner of an electric kiln. I usually work on the wheel but have also found hand-building to be very rewarding.
I am influenced by the friendly people in the S.V.I. Potters Guild and a local group, Garden City Potters, that meets regularly in Victoria. I am indebted to Betty B., Ester G. and Penny J. for their ongoing encouragement and genuine willingness to help and support me in my clay endeavors.
My first Pottery Sale, presenting my work along with other guild potters, takes place in June 2009. Just as that sign on the road did in 1992, this sale will represent yet another new beginning and twist in the road of my life ~ I look forward to it!
