My mother, the happy potter-from son and daughter

David Tao

I find incredible joy to see my mother work with ceramics. For the wonder it brings to others and the bliss that it brings to my mother.

To have found her passion and to be skillful in it, is a rare combination that many people seek, and so few can find.

Daisy Tao

Over the last ten plus years, it has been really wonderful watching my mom find true joy and happiness, through working with ceramics.

My mother is a very curious and somewhat defiant (in a positive, "I can prove you wrong" way) person. She is always observant of our world, and because she is constantly inspired by her surroundings, she could always find new subjects for her next pottery project. Her take on ceramics is refreshing and unconventional. In her world, every shape and object that exists, can be replicated by clay, and be replicated in an interesting way.

I saw her work evolve from very simple shapeless mugs to extremely intricate objects that involve multiple layers of clay and highly detailed carvings. I think she's undaunted by complex projects, and if she finds a good idea to work on, even if complex, she's excited to find ways to materialize it.

My mother is a strong advocate of finding work that brings you joy, and therefore, she has always encouraged her kids to find their calling and to never settle for work that makes them unhappy. I think we are very lucky to have so much support and encouragement from her. 

To discover what one loves to do, is magical, and I believe my mother has found that magic and joy, in ceramics.