Terry E. Smith and Cynthia Faber Smith comprise the FaberSmith Press & Pottery team, collaboratively bringing their skills from careers in illustration and graphic design into the ceramics world.
FaberSmith pottery involves detailed trimming and includes a chattering technique to create a unique carved pattern for each vessel and/or vessels may have applied sculptural details. The result is that each vessel — through form, function, and glaze — is a useable piece of art.
Cindy took ceramics classes as a child and studied pottery as part of her Studio Art degree from Furman University. “Getting back to clay after a looooong hiatus has been full of joy and growth for me. I am my best self when I am elbow-deep in the mud.”
Terry’s first pottery class was part his graduate studies. Returning to pottery decades later, he quickly discovered the process was too “messy” for him.
While Terry can’t tolerate wet clay and Cindy is most inspired when she gets dirty, they decided to focus on their individual strengths. For most vessels, Cindy throws the pot. Terry then trims and chatters each pot to create their unique look. Glazing has been a collaboration on decisions and Cindy does the majority of the applications. Terry finishes and tests each pot for vitrification. Cindy photographs each piece. Additionally, Terry creates any custom tools needed for their projects and/or researches techniques. Cindy does most of the reclaim process and Terry does most of the deep cleaning (surprise).
Learn a little more about us from this article in Greenville’s TALK Magazine.
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We surprised friends by renewing our marriage vows on our twentieth anniversary (complete with original wedding dress). Photo by A. Greg Raymond
The studio
Nestled in our backyard, the studio houses pottery, painting, and press tools and supplies.
Wheel delivery
We are fortunate to live within driving distance of Clay King, a pottery supply store. This was a happy day when we brought home our first wheel.
Time for our close up.
Watch this clip and hear the reporter mention that Terry had made a mess. That was the last straw for Terry and he made a specific tool to help control the mess he might make with trimming and chattering. Read about his invention in our blog. He’s happy to share his template if you want to make one, too.
FaberSmith Press & Pottery 