In 2002, while living in Vancouver, I took my first pottery class at the local community centre. Within a year, I had abandoned my career as a healthcare writer and marketing consultant, moved back to Ontario, and enrolled in  the  Ceramics program at the Haliburton School of the Arts (Fleming College).

I am no stranger to career change. In 1985, I started my career as a nutritionist, then left my job with the City of Toronto two years later to embark on a career in healthcare communications, working for a large multi-national eye care company for ten years, followed by five years with a small Toronto-based healthcare advertising agency.

In 2008, I relocated to Guelph, Ontario where I make and sell pottery and jewellery at my downtown studio and showroom – Blue Iris Studios.

I continue to develop my skills by attending conferences and workshops with local and international artists whose work I admire.

As part of my ongoing professional development, I am currently participating in FUSION: The Ontario Clay and Glass Association’s Ceramics Mentorship Program with ceramic artist extraordinaire Bruce Cochrane. Bruce is mentoring a group of ten makers. The year-long program will culminate in a group exhibition at The Ontario Crafts Council gallery on Queen St. W. in August 2012. Check the Events section for details.

Iris Dorton