Carol Mantey
Pottery
33 Tamarack Row
Galena, IL 61036
(815) 858-2574
csmantey@aol.com


Carol Mantey for the Galena Studio Tour will be at:
Artists' Annex
418 Spring Street
Galena, IL 61036

Carol Mantey:  Nature Pottery

I first studied ceramics in Chicago at Salt Creek Pottery.  Since retiring to Galena eight years ago, I have been able to dedicate more time to both my interest in art and nature.  I studied with Charles Fach and was an associate at the Stone House Pottery in Galena for five years. I also worked in a co-operative group of potters called Mississippi Mud Studios in Dubuque Iowa.  Four years ago, I built my own studio at our home outside Galena. 

Pottery is the medium I choose to reflect my love of nature - incorporating nature themes, patterns and nature textures into bowls, mugs, vases and teapots.  I enjoy wandering the woods, looking at wild flowers, limestone rock textures, moss, ferns and listening and observing birds.  Photographing details in nature, going up close with a macro lens allows me to remember details later. Using a sketchbook, I record observations and collect pine cones, unique leaves, rocks and pods for inspiration.  I sometimes use the items I collect directly and press leaves, prairie plants, wildflowers and weeds into tiles and bowls.  Lately I focused more on birds, drawing owls, downy woodpeckers, meadow larks or other birds on vases or platters.  For glazing, my preference is more earthy tones and colors.
I prefer making pottery that is functional - things that can be incorporated into the pattern of daily life.

Recent Shows and Exhibits include the Galena Artist Guild Gallery,  Stone House Pottery and Gallery, the Galena Market House Art Festival and Galena Cellars Fall Harvest and Art Festival.