Douglas Smith

Studio 17B

Ceramics &
hand-crafted home furnishings

My ceramics run from whimsical to sculptural with touches of non-sequiturs. Home furnishings include pillows, rugs, bags, dish towels, and furniture

My grandmother taught me sewing at a young age. As a result, I have always had a love of textiles. The creative spirit of my youth was further built upon by participation in a very rich Theatre Arts scene. In college, I found Interior Design and spent the next several decades designing for hotels. During my professional career, my wild side creativity was fed by participating in parade arts, helping to create costumes, floats, and giant puppets for Summer Solstice Celebration in Santa Barbara.

In 2010, I left the hospitality industry, and I bought a walking foot sewing machine and began making upholstered seating, cushions and creating a bespoke home furnishings business. I tend to make furniture that feels very personal. I love offering custom upholstery to people who may not think it’s something they can afford. Much of the furniture I make is by commission for clients. I have a knack for being able to use unusual materials in unexpected ways. For many years I have enjoyed fabric dying and I often incorporate hand-dyed fabric into my work and wardrobe. Recently, I have revived my interests in reverse smocking ( a form of fabric manipulation) and large-scale braided textiles.

I am a latecomer to ceramics, and I am self-taught. I think my working style is informed by my relationship with fabric. When a slab of clay was placed in front of me, I began to see how I could manipulate it like fabric. I create movement and flow within the folds and shapes that I create.

In my most recent ceramic works I am incorporating woven elements. I am experimenting with a variety of materials with which to weave onto my ceramic frames.

I am thrilled to be in Gualala and participating in the Studio Discovery Tour.