Catharina Sikkes

I’m originally from the Netherlands and moved to the United States in 1987. These days, I live on a farm in Charlotte, where homesteading is my passion and part of my everyday rhythm.

My pottery journey began in 1988 with a community class in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. From the moment I touched clay, I was hooked. After moving to Vermont in 2002, I joined the pottery program at the University of Vermont and continued deepening my craft. I taught pottery for ten years and have always loved sharing the magic of clay, how it moves, transforms, and surprises.

In 2024, I began teaching at the Shelburne Craft School, where I continue to share my love for clay with new students and fellow makers.

I consider myself a functional potter. I enjoy making pieces that people use and live with. A few years ago, I discovered hand-building, and it opened up a whole new world of creativity for me. There’s something deeply satisfying about shaping clay with just your hands and imagination.