Much of what I create has its roots in the utilitarian pottery tradition where functional concerns are paramount. However, it is my belief that aesthetic considerations and functional concerns should share equal importance. Achieving a good balance between the two is my challenge. The objects I most enjoy creating are those that beg to live outside of the cupboard as objects for contemplation and enrichment, until called into service.
—Debra Oliva
Debra Oliva was born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago. She attended Northern Illinois University, earning a BFA in Drawing and Painting. After graduating, she went on to work in the printing industry for more than a decade. She began taking classes at an area potter’s guild and continued her education attending dozens of workshops. She has now been working in clay for more than 30 years. Oliva's work has been awarded prizes in several national and international shows, and was selected for inclusion in Lark Books' 500 Pitchers and 500 Teapots II. She maintains a studio at her home in Michigan.