“Getting them into the right positions and blending dog and human postures is fun. Seeing them come out of the kiln ready to hold a book, row a boat or play the violin is a thrill. And yes, more than a few have had to be repurposed! That’s just part of the process and makes creating them both challenging and joyful,” said Welsh.

“I am fortunate that at this point in my life I’ve learned it’s not about making money-it’s about spreading joy. So I’m happy when my pottery pups go to a loving home and that a good amount of the sales can go to the Foothills Humane Society which does such an outstanding job finding real homes for real dogs,” said Welsh.

A retired educator from South Carolina, Welsh moved to Saluda and found clay that opened a new world of joy for her. She has taken classes at Tryon Painters and Sculptors, Tryon Arts and Crafts, John Campbell Craft School and Odyssey and has exhibited in juried art shows and in local galleries. Through the endless ways to manipulate and stretch clay, hand-building and sculpting clay allows her to personally express herself.

Inspired by the beauty of nature around her and experiences from working with children and seeing things from their innocent perspective, she is able to bring both her love of nature and joyful heart into unique creations.

The name of her pottery business is “Gingerly Touched,” named for her favorite herb, Ginger, and the fact that a good potter must touch the clay gingerly.

Welsh has also been an active member of the Saluda Business Association for more than five years and a primary organizer for the Saluda Arts Festival, now in its 10th year. She is also a board member of the Saluda Community Land Trust and volunteers on several community projects.

Pictures of the sculptures can be seen on Facebook/Susie Welsh.  For more information, contact Susie Welsh at 828-749-3900 or email at sswelsh@tds.net.

– article submitted by Cathy Jackson