About
I’m Emma Ponder, the maker behind Ponder Ceramics.
Ponder Ceramics lives primarily in my 600-square-foot apartment in Charlotte, NC. Wares are made while surrounded by my dog, two cats, and wonderfully supportive partner. These pieces then go on a trip with me to my hometown, Asheville, NC, to be fired and glazed in my parent's garage. Each piece has in some way been a part of my home before it becomes a part of yours.
My ceramics journey started in high school and continued through classes at local studios. I was raised by a family who incorporate creating and working with their hands into daily life. Having a creative outlet was something my whole family could agree on. This was reinforced at every turn by my upbringing. There was an overall functionality to their creation that also drew me to functional wares. Learning how to tile your own house, how to make your own quilt, and to learn something new if you didn’t already know how to make what you needed. Now I find pleasure in the act of getting my hands dirty and creating beautiful pieces that are meant to last. This is a fleeting time in my life filled with experimentation and finding creative ways to make art.
Ponder Ceramics wares are generally neutral in style and color with dark and moody undertones. The clay body I use is a dark brown that gives a warm muted color while still allowing glazes to feel rich and have depth. Within my work, you will find wheel-thrown pieces as well as more organic handbuilt pieces that play outside of circularity and symmetry.
