ABOUT US
MISSION
At Suwanee ClayWorks, our mission is dedicated to transforming lives through nurturing environments that foster self-discovery, endless learning and creativity. We cultivate an artist-centered community, offering outstanding educational and collaborative programs in ceramic arts. Our core values of inclusivity, excellence, integrity and joy are what drives us to nourish the human spirit through the shared experience of creating art!
Meet the team
Marissa hudson loose
Program Director
Marissa Hudson, a studio potter based in Duluth, Georgia, earned her BFA in Ceramics from Georgia State University in 2004. Initially introduced to clay in 2000 while pursuing an Art Education Degree, she discovered a deep passion for ceramics. Working at Daven’s Ceramics Center in Atlanta broadened her technical skills and portfolio. Seeking to share her love for clay, Marissa joined Ocee Arts Center as an instructor, where she engaged with a diverse student community. Her pottery embodies simplicity, grace and functionality, influenced by textile patterns from various cultures. Marissa’s current work focuses on creating a series of pots that explore relationships and human interactions. Through her craft, she captures moments in time, creating beautiful, meaningful objects cherished by others. She believes in the value of handmade items and aims to contribute to this philosophy through Suwanee Clayworks.
David Gentry
Clay Instructor
David Gentry is a seasoned Clay Instructor at Suwanee ClayWorks, driven by a lifelong passion for ceramics and by his assistant, Shiner the Dog. His journey began two decades ago when he and Marissa, the Program Director at Suwanee ClayWorks, bonded over their shared love for clay during their schooling. Since then, David’s pursuit of artistic excellence has taken him across the United States, where he has studied under renowned ceramicists, constantly refining his craft. From wheel throwing to handbuilding, sculpture to surface design, and even glaze mixing and gas firing, David’s expertise spans the entire spectrum of ceramic arts. His infectious enthusiasm and positivity infuse the pottery studio, inspiring students and colleagues alike. Beyond ceramics, David indulges in cooking, photography and travel, continually seeking new avenues for creative expression and building lasting connections within the ceramic community nationwide.
Gabriella king
Studio Technician
Gabriella has been making ceramics for over 20 years now. She has her BA in Studio Art with an emphasis in Ceramics and Photography, and considers herself blessed to work with her teacher, Char Felos, and to have had workshops with Paul Soldner and Glen Grishkoff. She was immersed in the California Ceramic community, and considers it a once in a lifetime experience. Her ceramics have a functional and sculptural aspect to them, and she has been exploring different glazes throughout the years. Despite her experience and expertise, she believes there is always more to learn, and that no matter our age or our situation in life, we never stop learning. Her journey with ceramics is continuing.
