Julie Clark
My work has a modern, simple and rustic aesthetic that I believe has evolved and was inspired by my environment and experiences accumulated from curating art, product design, installations, and travel. Participations in wood firing kilns led to my continued pursuit and appreciation of Japanese aesthetics.
Producing pieces that can be touched and used are essential to me - - a utilitarian piece that functions for daily rituals can be a very rewarding experience. However, creating work with a ‘nod only’ to functionality is meaningful too. A sculptural form or vessel strategically placed in the home can add depth, awareness and definition. I find this type of work to be equally as satisfying.
Inspired by my daughter, a fashion designer, I began making porcelain jewelry several years ago. Modern, simple and rustic are the aesthetics I strive for in the making of jewelry pieces as well.
Julie grew up in the Dayton, Ohio area. She and her husband purchased historic Bear’s Mill located in Greenville, Ohio in 1979. They renovated the Mill and the adjacent barn, which became their home and Julie’s clay studio. For 34 years, she served as owner, manager, and product/art curator of the Mill. Julie’s ceramic career was simultaneously conducted during this time with her work being exhibited primarily in the gallery space of the Mill. Now, the Millrace Gallery exists on the first floor on their barn home, where Julie and her husband reside.