Noah was born and raised in the mountains of Nelson County, Virginia, where he now lives and works. He has been involved in firing wood kilns and making pottery since he was a child, working with Kevin Crowe and Tom Clarkson. After receiving his bachelors in English from The University of Mary Washington he did a two year apprenticeship at Tye River Pottery with Kevin Crowe, while also spending a few months in the UK exploring other techniques and pottery styles. He now has his own studio and kiln, called Muddy Creek Pottery, where he makes pots and hosts firings for a community of potters who continue to learn about and explore the nuances of wood firing pottery.

“The pots I use and love all have a story, a reason they matter. Nothing is just part of a set. When I am throwing something on the wheel, I start with an idea, but the pot always begins from scratch, it’s a ball of clay, and ends up its own thing. When you make wood fired pottery, each piece is affected individually by the firing process, each surface reflects what happened to it in the kiln.

If we surround ourselves with handmade things, we are affecting the architectural landscape of our daily habits. These things imbue moments we might not even realize: holding on to a mug of coffee, serving friends off a big platter, sitting in a quiet room with a vase full of flowers. Objects made with intention bring a feeling of richness and depth. They matter, and that pulls our focus towards what matters to us.

I make pottery because I need good pots in my life, and to share that need. I use old world methods and focus. My pots are born in kitchen moments, when just the right bowl is needed and nothing else will do, but to go make it. They are formed deliberately with clay and wood and fire; my hands touch every step. That’s their story.”