About
I’m Emma Buchanan, the maker behind Ponder Ceramics.
Ponder Ceramics started in my 600-square-foot apartment in Charlotte, NC. Then, I made the move home to Asheville, North Carolina. Finding a new sense of peace and creativity back in the place where it all started. 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 that incorporates 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 and beauty to their creation that inspires me daily. Learning how to tile your own house, how to make a quilt, and 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 primary 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 hand-built pieces that play outside of circularity and symmetry, all inspired by the mountains I call home.
