Introducing myself... Julie Nelson

I collected pottery for many years, but didn't begin to make it myself until 1998. Regan Carney of Bay St. Louis, MS. was my teacher. I then had the opportunity to share studio space with Joe Bernard of Lacombe, LA., who taught me the raku process. I was hooked.

In 2004 I finally completed and set up my own studio! It didn't have a long life. Katrina totaled both my studio and the home that I shared with Tommy Lewis, my long-time partner. After the storm, we set up house in a small RV and have been "camping out" in the country since September 2005. Can't say we don't miss the coast, but we're only half an hour away.

In the chaos following Katrina, my urge to create was enormous. I needed a studio more than I needed a house. Thanks to the Hancock Arts website, only one year after the storm, I now have a studio. I was “adopted” by some wonderful people affiliated with the Minnesota Helpers Art Share Program. They provided me with the beginnings of my pottery studio, including a new wheel, fire brick with which to build my raku kiln and the essential clay and tools.

They also provided a venue for me to sell my art. I am now represented at the Frank Stone Gallery in Minneapolis and have been contacted by several other interested galleries.


Tommy and I still haven't been able to start our new house but having a studio and being able to work on pottery keeps me sane. There's a light in the darkness.

This site will feature some of my work - both earlier pieces and "post-Katrina" work. You'll also learn more about the raku process itself - an ancient Japanese form of firing. I want to share my love of the technique with any and all, as well as exchange ideas and suggestions with other raku potters. Feel free to contact me with questions or if you're interested in purchasing any of the pieces. My e-mail address is nelsonpots@gmail.com

My thanks to all the people who have made it possible for me to continue to create - it's helped me keep sane and still find joy in an upside down world.