Dandee Pattee

I make functional pottery with swelling and rising curves that are softened by layers of glaze on the exterior. I am compelled to make objects in clay because of the malleability and responsiveness of the material. I choose to work within the parameters of function because I enjoy the narrative I create between my work and those that interact with the pieces. While making my forms, the material rises and expands under my touch; recalling the memory traces I have of the vast, uninhabited Wyoming landscape I experienced growing up. The landscape is represented in my memory as undulating colorfields softened by native plants or blankets of snow. I attempt to replicate the boldness of the land through the forms I make and the color palette I have developed. Despite the countless hours I have spent refining my process there remains an unbridled element of surprise and sometimes disappointment to the experience that piques my interest and provides endless problem solving.

-- Dandee Pattee

After completing an MFA in Ceramics from the University of Florida, Dandee Pattee returned to her home state of Wyoming where she finds solace and inspiration.
In 2018 Dandee opened Sanctuary Pottery Studio where community members take classes and rent private spaces.

Dandee uses high fire porcelain clay that is fired to cone10 in a reduction environment. The carved surfaces feature cheerful floral motifs that include snake imagery. The pieces are then dipped into Celedon glazes.