Meet Kimberly
A 35‑Year Journey in Clay
"From the moment I felt the clay glide through my hands on the potter's wheel as a young girl, I was hooked! Now, even after all these years, clay is still a mystery to me....an endless challenge that excites me every day!"
— Kimberly Gray
Kimberly's Story
The Journey
For over three and a half decades, Kimberly Gray has dedicated her life to the mastery of ceramic arts. Born and raised near Annapolis, Maryland, her artistic evolution began in a high school ceramics class in 1988. Under the mentorship of the late Jennifer Osterman, Kimberly cultivated a profound connection to clay—a transformative practice that would ultimately define her life's vocation.
Following her early studies, she relocated to the beautiful North Carolina mountains to attend Western Carolina University, pursuing a degree in Art Education with a concentration in Ceramic Arts. Graduating with honors in 1997, she was honored with the Outstanding Prospective Teacher's Award— a testament of her remarkable skill and heartfelt commitment to her students. That same year marked the inception of Mudpuppies Pottery, a small retail store in Dillsboro, North Carolina.
Driven by her love of teaching and a desire to share her craft, Kimberly served as the Program Coordinator and lead instructor for the Ceramic Arts program at Asheville-Buncombe Community College. For six years, she mentored the next generation of potters. Eventually, the dual callings of her expanding business and her growing family necessitated a shift in focus. In 2003, she married her husband, Josh, and together they cultivated a life deeply rooted in family, faith, and creative expression, raising four children: Jacob, Aubrey, Jesse, and Sydney.
In 2008, the family established their home in a secluded woodland cove on Little Cove Knob near Sylva, North Carolina. Built on historic land with over 200 years of family heritage, the house features a dedicated 1,600-square-foot pottery studio on its first floor. With a rushing creek just outside and views of the Smoky Mountains from her potter's wheel, the space provides a practical, grounded environment for her daily work.
Yet, beyond the tactile nature of clay and the grandeur of the mountains, Kimberly's most profound inspiration emanates from her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Her deep-seated faith intrinsically weaves through both her life and her work. The breathtaking scenery surrounding her studio serves as a daily reminder of a humbling truth: she is merely an instrument, while God remains the ultimate Potter. In her hands, clay is transformed into art; in His hands, all things are made beautiful.
Premium Materials & Techniques
Every piece created at Mudpuppies Pottery begins with carefully selected, high-quality clay bodies. Whether working with a rich, gritty stoneware or smooth porcelain, the material dictates the form and function of the final vessel.
Our signature glazes are mixed in-house, allowing for complete control over the final finish. This dedication to the chemistry of ceramics ensures that each piece is not only beautiful but also durable and food-safe for everyday use.
From the initial wedging of the clay to the final high-fire in the kiln, every step of the process is handled with precision and care, resulting in heirloom-quality pottery that stands the test of time.
The Starry Night Collection
Inspired by the clear mountain skies of North Carolina, our signature Starry Night glaze captures the magic of a midnight sky. Each piece is carefully crafted to reflect the depth and wonder of the Smoky Mountain range, bringing a touch God's handiwork to your everyday life.
Mudpuppies Pottery Today
Today, Mudpuppies Pottery has grown into a thriving retail and wholesale business, with Kimberly's distinctive pieces finding homes around the world. Each creation carries the mark of her dedication, skill, and the endless fascination she still feels for working with clay.
From her mountain studio, Kimberly continues to explore new techniques, develop unique glazes, and create functional pottery that brings beauty and joy to everyday moments. Her work is a testament to the power of following one's passion and the magic that happens when artistry meets dedication.
"Every piece tells a story, and I'm honored to be part of yours."