Vicki Liles Gill graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting and drawing from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge in 1979. Her work is highly textured with carvings and impressions of natural organic patterns that feature birds, leaves, fish, and other inspirations from nature.
Studies at Gaston College and Penland School of Craft as well as workshops with nationally known potters form the basis of her knowledge and skills in clay.
Vicki established Bluegill Pottery in 1997. Her forte is thrown and handbuilt stoneware and porcelainous clay. Firing takes place in oxidation and, on occasion, in an atmospheric kiln. The tactile impression is as important to her as the visual impression, so carving and texturing methods form a common thread throughout the body of work. A desire to use and master techniques, such as carving and development of rich surface color and texture was influenced by Eastern pottery. Everyday use of handmade work was another important part of the Eastern tradition that caught Vicki Gill’s attention.
