I am often asked when I first knew I was an
artist. The truth is that I have never known
another way to live. As a child I made art with
materials that I found around me. Scraps of
fabric, wood and pine cones become magical
sculptures. Later I discovered paints and
brushes, glass and metal. It was only when I
found clay that I was ready and able to speak my
truth about who I am as an artist.
I chose to teach art for 30 years, helping young
people and adults to find their voice through the
act of making art. During those years I explored
the history of clay as an art form. How early man
came to work with clay and discover a firing
process was fascinating to me. I believe clay
vessels made by ancient people, across the
world, are as beautiful and elegant as any made
today.

Thirty years ago my clay vessels began to
closely follow ancient techniques and designs
from Greece, China, Africa and the First People of
both North and Central America. The technique I

find to be most challenging and satisfying is coil
building.

Long ropes of wet clay are layered to build the body of a vessel.

A simple connection
between myself and the clay. The sturdy walls are
then burnished smooth and often carved with
images of people, animals and symbols from
nature. There is no special secret to how I work.
What I share with my students is the one truth I
know as a clay artist. When you feel the wet clay
in your hands, and give yourself permission to
explore, art will happen.

-Bev Cordova

Born in North Carolina, Bev
came to Oregon as a young adult. After earning
a BFA in Fine Art, from PSU, Bev taught both high
school and junior college classes in ceramics,
sculpture, drawing, painting, and glass. Upon
retiring from teaching, Bev moved to the Oregon
coast. She continues her work with clay and
introduces others to the beauty and simplicity of
these ancient vessels.

You can find more examples of Bev’s work and
learn about upcoming events on her website,
CordovaClayWorks.com