Raised in Toronto, Carolyn Purden took up pottery in her late 20s. Within a few years, however, family and a busy journalism career became priorities. It was not until 2016, when she moved to Brantford, Ont., that she resumed her hobby, taking classes and then becoming an active member of the Brantford Potter’s Guild. She moved to Oak Bay in the fall of 2023.

Carolyn makes functional stoneware pottery - plates, bowls, mugs, serving dishes. At first focusing primarily on form, as her art has progressed she has become increasingly attracted to the magical effects that can be achieved by combining glazes on a single piece. Living close to McNeill Bay, much of her work is now influenced by the colours of the sea and rocks.

Carolyn enjoys the challenges pottery presents to the artist and is always looking for new ways to develop her art.