Red Lodge Clay Center – Short-Term Resident 2020
Born and raised in Red Lodge, Montana, Sue Tirrell holds an AA from Cottey College in Nevada, MO and a BFA from the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University. Her work draws inspiration from her experiences living in Montana and the West, her fascination with animals and interest in folk art, illustrated fairy tales and vintage kitsch. Sue’s work has been exhibited widely in the US, Canada and Australia and she has taught ceramics and multi-media workshops across the country from college classrooms to one-room schoolhouses. Sue lives and works north of Yellowstone National Park, in Montana’s Paradise Valley.
I came to clay as a college freshman, intent on studying Graphic Design and was won over by the prospect of activating sculptural and functional objects with narrative surface design. My pots employ mythic animal imagery, crisp design and riotous color to bring playfulness, character and storytelling to daily kitchen rituals and special occasions.