Shirley Jew started in clay as an outlet and to relax after teaching all day, plus to get units to further her career. San Diego State University had summer courses in ceramics and she took the first course and was determined to learn to center the clay. Eight years later having mastered centering, there were no more classes to take.

   Now, retired from teaching, Shirley works at the Potters' Guild in Balboa Park as much as possible, but travel, family obligations and household chores seem to get in the way.

   Functional pottery with brushwork, especially bakeware, is her chosen way to express herself. Since she loves making pots, she is willing to do sets of bowls, cups or dinnerware for friends and customers as special orders.

Clay is important to Shirley as it is a very fluid, malleable medium with and endless amount of forms and shapes.