Katie Ellsworth : Pottery

Artist Statement:

My work in ceramics is deeply rooted in simplicity, texture, and a connection to the natural world. I create aesthetic, functional ware that feels both intentional and effortless—pieces that invite touch and enhance everyday rituals. Since moving to Wyoming, I’ve been drawn to the landscape’s raw beauty, which has influenced my work not only in form but also in material. I collect wild clay from the surrounding areas, incorporating it into my pieces to create a direct link between the land and my craft.

I also specialize in raku firing, an unpredictable and expressive technique that embraces spontaneity. By using horsehair, pheasant feathers, and other natural combustibles from this region, I create surfaces that capture the fleeting interaction of fire, earth, and air. Each piece reflects a balance between control and surrender, much like the process of working with clay itself.

At its core, my work is about grounding—both physically and emotionally. Clay has a way of slowing things down, demanding presence and patience. Through my ceramics, I hope to share that sense of stillness and connection, offering pieces that hold meaning beyond their function.

Artist Bio:

Katie is a ceramic artist originally from Utah, who spent most of her life in San Diego before moving to Wyoming. She holds an associate’s degree in Sustainability, a field that informs her thoughtful approach to materials and process. Her journey with clay began in high school and continued through college, where she deepened her exploration of ceramics as both an artistic and grounding practice.

Kat’s work blends aesthetic simplicity with organic textures, often incorporating wild clay sourced from the Wyoming landscape. She also specializes in raku firing, using natural combustibles like horsehair and pheasant feathers to create distinctive, one-of-a-kind surfaces. Now based in Wyoming, she continues to refine her craft, drawing inspiration from the land and the balance between control and spontaneity in ceramics.