Susan Messer McBride of Mind Clay Body Studio unearthed her passion for clay after receiving a Master’s in Education/Social Policy from Northwestern University. A Chicago based educator, ceramic artist, and painter, Susan has taught in the United States, China, Kenya, and Mexico. She is certified in Clay Field Therapy, a haptic-based, sensorimotor intervention that heals trauma or developmental delays, and in the Community Resilience Model, a somatic-based self care set of skills.
McBride crafts pots inspired by the intersection of natural and urban environments and finds purpose and peace through ceramic work. Wood firing and studio affiliations include Barro Sur, Made Chicago, River Song Pottery, Taller de Terreno, and Theaster Gates Studio.
Hands touching clay, I feel alive: soul, spirit and body, connected. I make functional and sculptural ceramics for contemplation, relaxation and the practice of life. Sourced from our earth, clay is rock weathered over time. Intrigued by the scientific and haptic nature of the material, for me it links humans to our planet and each other. Every clay pot has its own story and can serve as a reminder of our individualism and humanity.
