CHERYL J. ALPERT

I have always loved the arts as an observer and collector. After 9/11 and the loss of my best friend, I sought a different kind of therapy—I got my hands dirty!

I have worked in several studios including the DeCordova Museum, Feet of Clay, The Potters Shop and Studio with well-known potter Steve Branfman, and Community Kiln. At each, I learned from many terrific teachers and guides. I had the great privilege of studying with the Japanese Master, Makoto Yabe, at the DeCordova who impressed on me the importance of bowing down to the clay as it so represents the forces of earth, fire, and water.

Clay intrigues me as it responds to my touch as I work on the wheel, in hand building, or creating stretch pots. Often, the shapes seem like a negotiation to me, differing from what I envisioned to then morphing and taking on their own form. I began concentrating on utilitarian items but soon found myself wanting to be more daring and creative.

The attached photo is a hand-built piece, Petal Bowl.