“Black art has always existed. It just hasn’t been looked for in the right places.”

Romare Bearden

My name is Kourtenay Plummer and I am the artist behind Kourtenay Plummer Pottery. I was born and raised in Chesterfield, Virginia. I fell in love with pottery at a young age and decided to pursue art during college. I graduated from William and Mary with a BA in art and a MaEd in elementary education. I taught art, to both children and adults, for many years in Williamsburg, VA. Like many people during the current pandemic, life presented many challenges and I was stuck at a crossroads. In late 2020 I decided to leave teaching to pursue art full time. I love education so much that I do not see myself ever fully retiring from teaching.

I am the co-owner of an art gallery and pottery studio in Amelia, Virginia. You can find more information about that here!

My artistic style blends the rich heritage of pottery traditions with a contemporary twist. I embrace the tactile qualities of clay, both on and off the potter's wheel. Hand-building and wheel-throwing techniques converge to craft pieces that embody a delicate balance between form and function. The texture and surface of my pieces are meticulously crafted to convey the depth and diversity of humanity’s and nature's designs.

As an artist, my journey is one of shaping not just the medium but also the bonds that connect us as human beings. Through each vessel, I explore the themes of gathering, the strength of families, and the richness of community. My work longs to inspire people to come together, to form community, and to cherish the connections that bind us. Whether it's a collection of pottery that gathers on a table, a family of pieces that share a kinship, or a set that speaks to the beauty of unity, each piece carries a message of togetherness. It's an ode to the shared moments, laughter, and love that thrive when we connect.