Judy Weeden’s ceramic practice spans more than five decades and stands as a cornerstone of West Coast studio pottery. Originally trained in biology, Judy left an academic career in the early 1970s to pursue clay—first in Fairbanks, Alaska and later on Salt Spring Island, BC. Her technical and philosophical foundation comes from studying with Al Johnson (UC Santa Cruz) and Dean Schwarz (Luther College), both profoundly influenced by Bauhaus potter Marguerite Wildenhain. Judy credits these teachers—as well as a serendipitous workshop with Wildenhain herself—for shaping her understanding of clay as a lifelong discipline.

Since 1972 her work has evolved while retaining a consistent voice rooted in functionality, craftsmanship, and a deep relationship with nature. Judy’s stoneware vessels are thrown, altered, slab-built, or constructed from multiple components, forming canvases for her extensive surface decoration. Slip-carving, slip inlay, impressed patterning, underglaze painting, terra sigillata, and high-temperature firing all play roles in her process.

Surface is not ornamentation for its own sake—it clarifies form, defines movement, and reflects her experience of the natural world both outside her studio window and within her inner landscape. Her motifs balance geometry and organic rhythm, order and spontaneity, intellect and emotion.

Judy describes the brightest part of her day as the walk to her studio each morning, where she meets the challenges and joys of clay with honesty and curiosity. Despite changes in the national and international pottery scene, she has remained dedicated to work that synthesizes beauty, harmony, and fearlessly individual expression.

Today, Judy Weeden continues to create stoneware vessels that embody integrity, craftsmanship, and a lifetime of devotion to clay—each piece speaking in her unmistakable voice.

“Clay is my language. Though my vessels begin with function, their true purpose is to express the rhythms of nature, the clarity of form, and the inner landscapes that guide me. Slip-carving, inlay, and patterning allow me to define each form with honesty and intention. When a pot stands and speaks for itself, I feel blessed.”

Artist CV Highlights

• Studied with Al Johnson (UC Santa Cruz)
  
• Mentored by Dean Schwarz (Luther College, Iowa)
  
• Influenced by Marguerite Wildenhain (Bauhaus lineage)
  
• 50+ years of professional ceramic practice
  
• Known for functional stoneware, slip-carving, geometric and nature-based motifs
  
• Works in private collections across North America