Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/667021
APRIL/MAY 2016 93 Amy McCuough Heis Macon Clay Studio 2281 Vineville Avenue | 478.731.1376 MaconClay.com Tell us about your business and your career path. I have a BFA from UGA with a double major in sculpture and photography. I have been teaching sculptural ceramics for over 20 years to children, teens, and adults. I do not throw pots or use molds like you would find in a typical pottery studio. I try to emphasize form over function. Everything is hand-built and is totally unique. In addition to instructing, I sell my original artwork and do commission based work. Who influenced you the most? So many artists have influenced me over the years and I am constantly discovering new artists that continue to inspire me. The biggest influences for my career choice have been 2 local clay artists that I have had the fortunate pleasure to work with over the years - David Bernard and Meg Hogan Campbell. Both of these artists push the limits of clay and elevated its status, for me, from a technical craft to high art. I am also strongly influenced by nature and its constant evolution, of both growth and decay. What is the most gratifying part of your job? Watching my students' excitement when they are *** able to create something beautiful out of a lump of clay. There is so much history in clay and it is so primal and meditative. The visceral quality of clay and the vitrifying process that occurs in the kiln firing are both elements that keep me excited about working with this medium. For me, sculpture is such a relatable art form, as most everything in our daily lives is tactile and three- dimensional. Tell us your involvement in the community. Recently I was commissioned by The Friends of Tattnall Square Park with funding from The Knight Foundation to create a large finial to be cast in concrete and installed as finials around the park. I chose a magnolia bud as my model as this tree is a prominent feature in the park. I was honored to be chosen for this opportunity and enjoy visiting them, as well as all of the revitalization that this beautiful historical park has undergone. I am excited about the possibility of creating more public art work for the rapid urbanization of downtown Macon. Where do you see yourself five years from now? Ha! I will not make any predictions. Life has led me, rather than me leading life. I like where it has taken me so far. From Macon, Boston, New York City, Miami, Johannesburg (the deep south!), and back to Macon! I am excited about the next unknown ventures and adventures I will experience in this short life. Of course dipping my toes into as many oceans as possible is a constant goal of mine! SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Women In Business