Nancy Hernesmaa

Ely, Minnesota

Pottery, Locally Hand Processed Clay

Digging my own material is centered on giving value to what comes from our region and encourages thoughtful engagement with the world around us. There is richness to the color and texture of our local clay that has the ability to affect the design decisions I make.
Clay is in constant change through form, texture, and color
creating limitless opportunities!


“Working with clay allows me an amazing tactile and creative connection. When process grows into passion, the heart finds a home”

A ceramic bowl with a yellow and green background decorated with pink floral patterns.
A decorative ceramic planter with intricate patterns and textured surfaces, featuring earthy colors like brown and gray. It has a large, rounded shape with a ruffled top edge and displays swirls and carvings around its circumference. A small, rock sculpture with stacked stones and a sphere hanging from a string is placed on the right side of the planter.
Two ceramic mugs and two bowls with orange interior and exterior, orange and yellow speckled pattern, placed on black fabric background.