Susan Piazza

Susan Piazza
Tile Maker – Clay Artist

As a child I always gravitated toward arts and crafts as hobbies. I studied watercolor, drawing and photography as art forms, but fascinated by tactile texture I dabbled more in fiber arts and paper making. Then after 20 years working in the gallery business I really felt excited to create something “raw” and “organic” that could be displayed in its original form without the need for glass over it.

My Deckled Tiles derived directly from my paper making days where I loved seeing evidence of the process… the texture… the blending of materials and yes, the deckled edges! Every tile is unique and oddly, this element of surprise goes against my personality patterns completely! I am a planner to the core and perhaps that’s why I love the clay process… it’s full of wonderful surprises and challenges me to remember we are not always in control.

I was born in Wyoming, my husband and I have resided in Minneapolis most of our lives and last year bought a home in Arizona where we hope to spend more and more time, especially in winter! The desert is such an inspiring landscape with all its innate beauty and organic color.

Private study in watercolor, drawing and photography – officially studied Interior Design at the University of Minnesota. Member of the Handmade Tile Association.