About the Artist

Aleda Diggins

Diggins Designs

107 Sandra Lane

Normal, IL 61761

Tel.: (309) 862-4672

e-mail: digginsdesigns@earthlink.net  

                After working in several different fields, I have realized I am happiest in my studio working with clay.   My

                husband and I started Diggins Designs in 2003 so I could sell my creations, most of which have a Celtic 

                influence.  I have also taught community education courses in beginning ceramics and Celtic Knotwork.  I am

                a “wee bit” Scottish and my husband is of Irish-American descent, so that is where my interest in Celtic design

                motifs originates.   

    Artist Statement and Description of My Work:  

                I like to bring together ancient designs, textures and beautiful glazes in ceramic artwork people can enjoy and

                wear every day.  I draw upon patterns and pieces of decoration found on ancient tools, ornaments, coins, and

                illustrations, some going as far back as 400 B.C.  I also design my own knotwork patterns, frequently using

                elements of these ancient motifs.  I bring out textural relief through the use of plaster stamps, which I design

                and carve myself. 

                I love the play of light through translucent glaze colors and have found that the smooth whiteness of porcelain

                best takes on the textures of my designs, while showing off the high fire stoneware glazes I gravitate to.  Each

                jewelry piece I make is therefore a small, colorful and wearable tile, touched by a bit of ancient aesthetic grace.