Name: Sheryl Sherwood
In what part of the First Coast do you reside now, and how long have you lived there?
I live in St. Augustine, where I have lived for 26 years.
How long have you been doing your craft or trade?
My journey in pottery began in 2011, when I attended a pottery workshop with a local potter. After years of drawing, painting, and looking for my creative outlet, clay appealed to me the minute I dipped my hands in the clay bag. That was it! Clay for me.
What brings out your creativity?
For me, my creativity comes out in challenging myself to build a new shape, a larger piece, use bold carving and textures, or finding a way to achieve different coloring through a variety of firing methods without the use of glazes. Creativity is working to please myself and not worry about what someone else might “like.”
What does your work aim to say? Are you trying to bring a smile to someone’s face or add to someone’s home decor?
Every piece of my art begins with a scripture. When I walk out to the studio to begin a new piece, I look out at the nature surrounding me and ask, “How are you feeling today?” Then I find a verse that speaks to me and inscribe it in the piece. My hope is that not only the scripture might speak to the person whose home or office the piece is displayed, but they will be constantly reminded of how they felt when they decided this was the piece for them.
Are there any spaces or designers that have influenced you?
I’m influenced by places I visit, other artists, organic shapes, and textures. I am influenced by a community of potters I have gotten to know over the years, in which we are constantly encouraging each other.
What is your favorite artistic accomplishment?
After years of creating, firing, and building new skills, I have to say being chosen to permanently exhibit in two local art galleries was quite an accomplishment. Many artists begin by making their work and giving it as gifts. Once everyone has some of your work, it’s time to move on. I am truly blessed to be in two galleries and to enter my work in other exhibitions from time to time.
Do you have a specific piece you would love to talk about or promote?
Yes, I do have a favorite piece. I was recently introduced to the wood-firing method. Normally, I fire using a pit fire, saggar firing, or raku method in which I can accomplish with little or no assistance. Wood firing in a local Anagama (20-foot-long chamber) requires a village of potters to feed the fire for more than 80 hours. The piece I want to introduce is not only the largest piece I have made to date, but accomplished the best coloring I have seen without using glazes. I named the piece “Walk by Faith.”
What is the best way for artists to network?
Getting together with other artists in casual, as well as formal, settings is a great way to network and share interests and techniques. There are many Facebook groups that I join in order to keep up with what artists are creating, questions they might have about the craft, or firing methods.
If you had a question you would like to ask another artist, what would it be?
I am always learning and growing in my clay journey. There are ways to achieve balance in working with clay, for example, that elude me sometimes. I see so many pieces that seem to defy gravity. I would ask, “Do you mind sharing your building method with me?”
What’s the best thing for you about living on the First Coast?
I have lived along or near the First Coast all my life. I love the weather and access to many fun family experiences.
How can we see your work? My work can be accessed through my website – https://www.inspireddesignsbysheryl.com/
FB – https://www.facebook.com/inspireddesignsbysheryl
IG – https://www.instagram.com/inspireddesigns.ss
I also show in two art galleries, as well as other art exhibitions
Galleries:
Professional Artists of St. Augustine – https://www.pastagalleryart.com/
The Art Collective – https://artcollectivestaugustine.com/
Exhibits:
First Coast Cultural Center – https://firstcoastculturalcenter.org/
St. Augustine Art Association – https://staaa.org/
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Glenn is the founder and publisher of First Coast Life. He is also a wonderful storyteller. Born on the 4th of July, he spends his spare time taking his camera and exploring everything beautiful this region offers with his rescue dog Callie by his side. He loves meeting new people and capturing the many beautiful moments and amazing local stories that showcase the true spirit of the area.
