About
I began creating redware in 2002. My inspiration for using red earthenware clay came about from an adult evening class taught by my friends Loretta and Ivan Belac, where I used my great-grandmother's tin cookie cutters to make ornaments. I have since had replicas made so that I can use the originals for the big fat sugar cookies I make at Christmas time. Prior to 2002 I was employed in the corporate world as a computer programmer and analyst for almost 20 years. I graduated from Moravian University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania in 1982 with a degree in Studio Art.
I love the deep rich color of the red clay. I am self-taught and continue to refine and expand my skills each day. I begin by working with a clay that is a dark red brown, and when fired, becomes a beautiful red. I like shiny things and have decided not to age my work.
I am a Master Artisan of the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen, and am included in the Directory of Traditional American Crafts presented by Early American Life magazine. I currently serve on the board of the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen and chair the Joint Chapters/Membership committee.
Definitions of Redware decoration techniques
Sgraffito ware - Slip (liquid clay) of a different color is applied to the red earthenware clay, then the slip is scratched away to reveal the clay beneath to create the design.
Slipware - Slip of a different color is drawn on the red earthenware clay in pleasing designs
Publications
2023
Veranda - January/February article
"A Fiery Renaissance
Modern potters are reshaping centuries-old ceramic arts, signaling a bold new era for American craft."
Credits: “Art Ceramicists” page 58-62
As seen in Veranda Magazine, January/ February 2023. Photographs by Becky Luigart-Stayner (@sunnyhousestudio). Produced by Sara
Clark (@saraellisclark). Written by Tracey Minkin (@tracey_minkin) Reprinted with permission of Hearst Magazine Media, Inc.
Denise's photographer - Shea Winter Roggio (@sheawinterphoto)
2020-2024
Early American Life – August issues with the Directory of Traditional American Crafts – features artisans' jury entries
2017
Early American Life – June issue – featured my Sgraffito bowl
Keystone Edge site - Handmade in PA: Stunning ceramics from the state’s artisans
2009
Pottstown Mercury newspaper – August 30, 2009 - “Feel Free to Touch” by J. F. Pirro
2010
Town and Country newspaper – October 21, 2010 – “Finding Happiness in Pottery” by Kelly Chandler
2008
Antiques and Collecting Magazine – April issue – article written by Wendy Komancheck titled “Inspired by Pennsylvania Dutch Folk Art”. The “Partridge in a Pear Tree” Sgraffito plate was featured on the cover.
Pottery Making Illustrated - March/April issue – Authored “Pennsylvania Redware” a “how-to” article on the making of Pennsylvania Redware. Photo of me at work appears on the cover. Published by The American Ceramic Society
Read the article here
These books contain the "Pennsylvania Redware" article:
2008 - Electric Firing : Creative Techniques;
2015 - Glazing Techniques edited by Anderson Turner
2016 - Low-fire Glazes and Special Projects edited by Holly Goring
Teaching
I have been leading hands-on workshops making Redware Pottery since 2007. I enjoy helping folks of all ages create their own special redware plates and I love all the different designs they choose to do. Check out the students' work on the Workshops page.
The Future...
I am looking forward to enlightening more folks about Redware and the Pennsylvania German potters. The methods and hand tools used hundreds of years ago can still be used today to create stunning objects. Pottery is a science lesson that art makes beautiful!