Susan Coe was born in England, grew up in Alabama, and now lives just outside of Bryson City. There was one spot left in the pottery class she decided to take at Southwest Community College (SCC). Soon thereafter, pottery consumed her. Today, Susan has a home studio where she produces her colorful, functional pottery.
Each piece of work Susan creates is thrown and then decorated using sgraffito and mishima techniques. Sgraffito is a technique where a design is carved into a layer of color on the piece using a tiny loop tool and stylus. Mishima design is inscribed and then the lines filled in with color. Susan’s designs often carry over from the side to the bottom of the piece so that the work functions as art, even when it’s upside-down in the dishwasher. Her designs are inspired by nature, and Susan’s vibrant use of color stands out from the more traditional browns and earth tones found in much pottery.
Visitors can see Susan demonstrate how she throws and decorates her pieces. They can also find a large selection of pieces available for purchase including mugs, dinnerware, tea sets, serving pieces, vases, covered jars, tiles, and knitting bowls. Susan now teaches pottery at SWCC and offers private lessons.
Open by Appointment
