“There is the mud, and there is the lotus that grows out of the mud. We need the mud in order to make the lotus.”
―Thich Nhat Hanh
My Story
From a young age, I’ve found immense joy in the creative process, especially when working with clay. Some of my earliest memories include visiting a local potter’s studio as a child and being mesmerized by her skill as she threw a piece on the wheel. Later, in high school, I was fortunate to learn the art of throwing from my incredibly talented art teacher. I would arrive at school early and stay late to maximize studio time, often attending other classes with clay in my hair and mud on my clothes.
My love for the transformative process of ceramics followed me into college and beyond. I used any extra money I had to pay for classes or studio time, even as I pursued a degree in Human Services. After college, I built a career working with disadvantaged populations, got married, had two wonderful daughters, moved several times, and embraced the ebb and flow of life. Through it all, time in the studio remained sacred—a space where I could shed everyday stress and reconnect with myself.
In 2021, I took a leap and transformed my basement into my own pottery studio. For many years, ceramics was a therapeutic hobby, but in 2024, everything aligned. I decided to follow my passion and launched my business, Centered Soul Ceramics.
Thank you for your curiosity and interest in my journey! ~ Mandi Blanch
(2006)
More than just a pot
When I’m in the studio, I strive to infuse each piece with my heart and soul throughout its transformation. I take pride in creating from a place of mindfulness, thoughtfulness, and intention—rather than simply following a repetitive process for the sake of production. This is why I focus on small-batch creations.
I love crafting pieces that feel good in every sense: satisfying to hold, touch, look at, and use. My goal is to create objects that bring simple joy to daily rituals, enhancing the moments they become a part of.
Throwing pottery requires entering a state of flow—being attuned to the subtle imbalances in the clay and knowing intuitively how to guide it into harmony with your hands. This pursuit of balance shapes not only my work in the studio but also my life beyond it.
With each piece I release, my hope is that it brings you a sense of balance and joy as it becomes part of your daily rituals.
