I have started making masks for an upcoming show. Recently, I entered a few photos in a juried art show.
Going on 40 years, my work all started with a pottery class in high school. I have worked in the pottery studios at NAU, Kimbal Art Center, Sheldon Jackson College, and the University of Oregon. I also did an apprenticeship with my uncle in Northern California for a few years. I had my own studio in Phoenix, Arizona for 25 years, which I sold before moving to Carlsbad for work. I was happy to find The Artist Gallery and the pottery studio here.
I just really enjoy having my hands interacting with the earth; I have had a few gardens over the years as well. Most of my inspiration and color palette comes from the outdoors and nature. I really enjoyed my own studio and working alone, but recently I have been back in a group studio and enjoying the interaction with other potters and ceramicists. I really enjoy seeing people find art pieces that speak to them and the connection they have with art.
Currently, I am focusing on making lamp bases. It’s kind of a new area of pottery that I have not explored, and I am looking forward to where it takes me. I do mostly wheel-made pieces, but I am planning on adding to this, maybe some sculptural pieces. I have been enjoying seeing how the light interacts with the clay; I have a lot of ideas. Photography is another outlet. I actively take pictures when I am out in nature exploring, and I am looking forward to getting the pictures on canvas and other media, then see where that takes me.
Art has so many different mediums, from pottery to photography, paint, and music. I would say if you hear your spirit calling to get started, don’t wait, just start. Just like everything else, it will take practice. But the best time to start is now. Making art is fun; selling art and finding an outlet, picking prices, dealing with all the people involved, is business. That part can be stressful and crushing, but don’t give up. Get out, wherever you are, and support your local art community. The buyers of art and the community make artists thrive. Art makes everything more enjoyable.
tolsonpotteryworks@gmail.com • Instagram @tolsonpotteryworks
Article originally published in Focus on Carlsbad 2026 Fall edition.
