| Elspeth graduated from Acadia University in 1974 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree with many Art History courses, and in the year 1977, she began her Bachelor of Education Degree. Short one course from her degree, she moved to Houston where she received a Texas Teaching Certificate in the 1990's. Elspeth also attended the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design University upon her return to Nova Scotia. Workshops with successful United States and Canadian potters, attending school at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design, continuing education, and teaching pottery, all keep pottery magical for Elspeth. One of Elspeth's specialties is "raku", originating as a Japanese firing technique, which has progressed in North American. This has evolved for Elspeth into "horsehair raku". "Raku is exciting to produce. It is dangerous. It is elemental. The interplay of earth, water, fire, smoke, wind and chance a raku artist's dance", says Ruth Apter. The Kings County Museum showcased among other artists Elspeth as part of the "Pottery Past and Present" exhibit in 2003. That same year Elspeth hosted at the museum, a childrens workshop, "Clay Whistles". The previous year in Texas, Elspeth hosted an adult workshop, "Building a Raku Kiln". Elspeth says that her pottery is constantly evolving. Not one piece will be the same as she continues to change. Inspiration comes from everyday experiences that influence the functionality of the clay, along with the importance of historical and cultural influences. |
