Joy A. Ingram began working in clay at the tender age of nine when her mother enrolled her in a wheel throwing class to keep her out of trouble. That single act ignited a passion in Joy that carried her through college and several amazing pottery instructors.

Graduating from Ohio University in 1998 with a degree in organizational communication, Joy set out to enter the professional world with the pursuit of clay always in the back of her mind. In 2003, she began focusing on pottery full time through a two-year apprenticeship with master potter Jim Anderson.

Nineteen years after first learning to throw clay on a potter's wheel, Joy opened Brown Bear Pottery and now works full time out of her home studio in northeast Ohio. In 2006, Joy's husband, Zach, joined her in the business. He does anything and everything to keep Joy on the wheel longer making pots.

Each piece of Joy's pottery is wheel-thrown stoneware with an emphasis on functionality. A wide color palate punctuates her shapes and designs to enhance both traditional and contemporary homes.

For complete function, all of her glazes are lead free and non toxic. Each piece is safe for the dishwasher, microwave, oven, refrigerator and freezer.

For complete function, all of her glazes are lead free and non toxic. Each piece is safe for the dishwasher, microwave, oven, refrigerator and freezer.

Competing with the clay for attention in the studio, is a cute little guy by the name of Dart.

Now, being the smart little Jack Russell terrier that he is, it didn't take Dart long to figure out exactly how to steal Joy away from throwing clay for a few special moments of head patting and ear scratching.

Click the photo at the left to see Dart in action!