A softly lit tabletop scattered with hand-built ceramic beads, small vessels, and clay tools in warm earthen tones of rust, cream, and sage

Community & Collaborations

Connections with fellow clay artists, Etsy colleagues, and the broader craft community.

Creative Connections

Barbara's clay journey has always been enriched by the people around her — fellow makers, collaborators, and the wider ceramics community.

A close view of broken vintage ceramic plate shards in soft blue and cream, resting on a weathered wooden surface

Catfish Studio Collaboration

Barbara sourced vintage English Enoch Woods "Castles" bowl shards through Emily Cohen of Catfish Studio, incorporating these historic fragments into one-of-a-kind ceramic jewelry pieces.

Several hand-formed clay rattles in muted earth tones arranged on a textured linen cloth

Etsy Mud Team

As a member of the Etsy Mud Team, Barbara connected with a vibrant community of ceramic artists on Etsy, sharing techniques, encouragement, and the camaraderie of fellow clay enthusiasts.

A collection of small hand-built ceramic vessels and beads in varied glazes, clustered together on a sunlit shelf

Clay Challenges

In September 2012, Barbara participated in a creative challenge alongside other clay artists, exchanging ideas and pushing the boundaries of hand-building techniques in a spirit of friendly exploration.

Exhibitions

Barbara's work has been featured in juried shows and community exhibitions.

  • Creature Feature Exhibition The Community Arts Center, Wallingford, PA — January 2018
  • Cheltenham Center for the Arts Members' Show Cheltenham, PA — December 2017

In Print

Recognition beyond the studio.

An open art book resting on a clay-splattered worktable, pages showing glossy photographs of handmade beads in rich jewel tones

1000 Beads

Barbara's ceramic bead work was selected for inclusion in the 1000 Beads book, published in 2014 — a curated collection celebrating exceptional bead artistry from makers around the world.

A corkboard covered with pinned photographs, sketches, and handwritten notes in a cozy studio corner

Remembering John Barry Mathews

In November 2012, Barbara's good friend John Barry Mathews passed away. She created a Picasa album to commemorate his life, and his family hosted a gathering on December 15, 2012 in Mt. Holly, New Jersey.

Stay Connected

Explore more of Barbara's work and community ties.

Barbara maintained BHClaysmith Pinterest boards where she collected inspiration and shared her ceramic journey. Her Etsy shop at bhclaysmith.etsy.com was the hub for her hand-built ceramic jewelry and vessels, and her blog chronicled years of making, teaching, and connecting with the clay community.

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