A new batch of cats and kittens has arrived at Brooke Pottery, looking for good homes. This motley crew is none other than the delightful creation of cat lover and clay artist Mary Gates Dewey. Originally from Florida, Mary has spent a lifetime pursuing her passion for ceramics, working in the woods of southeast Ohio and the Appalachian mountains. In 1982, she created her first raku cat, and now cats are the only designs to leave the studio! 

The unique markings on these handsculpted clay cats results from the ancient technique of pit firing. After a first kiln firing, the cats are buried in sawdust; smoke from the burning sawdust then creates the beautiful and random color patterns.  Each pottery cat has a distinct personality, and many are named by their true life characters. In fact, Mary’s cat Kaygee, or “kiln god”, has inspired many designs over the years as he’s kept a careful watch over the pit firings. Come into Brooke Pottery soon to see all the frisky felines – they are sure to be adopted quickly!