ABOUT HEATHER LEPP
Heather Lepp is a ceramic artist and educator dedicated to creating functional pottery that enriches everyday life.
Inspired by historical techniques and a philosophy of presence, her work balances beauty and utility, inviting people to slow down and appreciate the small rituals of daily use.
Heather’s journey in ceramics began with a BFA from the University of Manitoba, followed by years of hands-on apprenticeships with master potters. She has exhibited her work across Canada and the United States and continues to refine her craft while completing her MFA at West Virginia University. Beyond her own studio practice, she is passionate about teaching, guiding students through the tactile and transformative process of working with clay.
ARTIST STATEMENT
I am inspired to create pottery that fits a need in my daily life with an emphasis equally placed on beauty and practicality.
In opposition to our current fast-paced society, my conceptual framework is shaped by poets, philosophers, and artists which call to be present in small daily pleasures. Commonplace wares such as mugs, bowls, vases, and plates are my focus. My work evolves as a continuum through repetition of forms that change slowly through time, examination, and use. In my studio practice, I chase the minute details of a pot; the way the belly of the form holds volume and space, how the handle feels between index and thumb, the emotive quality of the colour.
Through a search for connection and beauty, my practice is rooted in process and celebration of the handmade. With historical folk pottery as inspiration, I strive for my work to appear comforting and simple yet have an underlying contemporary complexity of form through alteration. In reference to my childhood cabin, my work is trimmed by hand, giving the appearance of being hand-hewn. The pieces are then fired in an atmospheric kiln, which creates a subtle surface that appears worn as if well-loved through years of use. Confounded by the seemingly simple task of creating functional ceramics, I am challenged to inquisitively search for improvement. With this intention, it is my role as a maker to create thoughtful utilitarian wares that are used to enrich the everyday.
FAQs
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Commissions are on a case-by-case basis, shoot me an email and let’s get the conversation going!
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Here is a list of galleries that currently stock my work:
Blue Teapot at The Quay, Vancouver, BC.
Clay Studio of Missoula, Missoula, MT.
C2 Centre For Craft, Winnipeg, MB.
Mattick’s Farm Gallery, Sidney, BC.
Nanaimo Ceramic Arts Studio and Gallery, Nanaimo, BC.
Persimmon Gallery, Columbia Falls, MT.
Willock and Sax Gallery, Banff, AB.
You can also find me at local markets in the Montana region, exhibiting internationally, or through my bi-annual online sale.
Otherwise, feel free to reach out through email for all other orders!
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I love to teach and share my passion in clay! I currently teach wo days a week at the Clay Studio of Missoula, as well as one-day workshops and short-term sessions. If you’re interested in hosting me for a workshop please reach out!
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All my pottery is food safe, dishwasher safe, and ready to accompany every part of daily life.
A selection of Heather’s latest pieces, exploring refined forms, surface treatments, and atmospheric firing techniques. These works highlight her continued evolution in craftsmanship and design.
RECENT WORK
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NEWSLETTER
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