E. Wynne Noble started living in Dumbo in the early 1980′s. She is a ceramic artist and recently began teaching from her studio. At first, she had a live/work situation on Pearl St. Then she took a work-only studio at 135 Plymouth Street where she has been for about 25 years. We asked her about her work and how Dumbo has changed over the years.

Tell us about your art and what inspires you.

My artwork is inspired by many cultures, the interplay of geography and the work of the human hand. The work addresses the dual characteristics of what is made by nature and what is made by human beings. Structure, form, color, as well as almost a lifetime of Brooklyn living are colored by a love of the countryside; all of these are the building blocks of these creations.

How do you come up with your designs? Do you plan it out before starting on a piece?

The direct juxtaposition of what we seem to be and who we really are, are evident in the nature of each piece. Fronts and backs, insides and outsides; are related – and significantly different. Thoughtful planning, followed by an intuitive process delivers the work. Meticulous care is taken so that each work extends an unspoken invitation to look again. The desire to touch is hard to deny.

What made you decide to open your studio for students of pottery?

The story goes that teachers learn at least as much from their students as the students learn from the teacher. It is terrific to see people light up as they work with clay.

You’ve been in Dumbo for a long time; how has it changed in your eyes? What do you like/dislike about the neighborhood?

It used to be that if you were walking to the subway in the evening and you saw another person on the street, the smart thing to do was turn around and head the other way. Now the vibe in the neighborhood is much like it used to be in SOHO in the 1970’s. It would be great if the neighborhood has not passed the tipping point where artists cannot stay in the area due to the mood of the market and the manner of too many of the developers. What makes the area so great is the broad spectrum of people who are a part of the place.

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If you’re interested in learning how to work with clay (and make pottery) Wynne Noble is offering semi-private lessons, group classes and parties.

• Tuesdays 4-6 pm, 7-9pm
• Thursdays 10:30am-12:30, 7:30-9:30pm
• Sundays 11am-1pm, 2:30-4:30pm

Ask for further schedule information and any questions.

FLEXIBLE LESSON TIMES
Classes are open to adults as well as school students. You can take this class with your child / parent, friend or partner. (4) 2 hour classes $160 per person. All materials and practice time included.

Contact wynne@nobletv.com or call 347-683-8781.