Professional potter Deborah Life of Columbia recently visited Lugoff-Elgin High School’s Independent Ceramics 2 students for a meet-and-greet tea and discussion about her work as a professional artist.
Life first connected with the school’s ceramics program in December at the Richland County Public Library’s Holiday Market, where Ceramics 1 students from Lugoff-Elgin set up a booth and sold their pottery.
After purchasing a piece titled “Hairs” by LEHS senior Bailey Settles, Life began talking with the students and teacher, and the group learned she is an active professional potter. The conversation led to an invitation for Life to visit the school as a guest artist for the upper-level ceramics class.
During the student-led tea, Life shared details about her background, how she found her path in pottery, the professional groups and activities she participates in, and business insights from her experience as a working artist.
Students also shared their own artwork, gave Life a tour of the ceramics studio and discussed their creative processes.
Life is expected to return for a future visit to demonstrate some of her techniques and collaborate with students on a hands-on project.
