Meet Brenda Anderson | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Brenda Anderson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brenda, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Taking Risks and Pushing Boundaries
In the early stages of my career, I worked as a finance and accounting executive. This period was characterized by a fast-paced environment that required me to be on my toes constantly. The demands of the job often tipped the scales heavily toward work, leaving little room for personal time. However, this phase taught me the importance of taking risks and pushing boundaries. Although the balance was skewed, it was a time of immense professional growth and development.
Fulfillment and Humility
Transitioning from the corporate world to becoming a full-time mom and community leader marked a significant shift in my work-life balance. This change allowed me to experience fulfillment in new ways and taught me the value of humility. My involvement in community and art organization boards enabled me to leverage my business skills in a more personal and impactful manner. During this chapter, I found a balance that nurtured both my personal aspirations and my desire to contribute to the community.
Embracing Creativity
The latest chapter of my life began with a relocation to Dallas. With my children grown and my professional life winding down, I found myself ready to explore new avenues. In 2019, I discovered my passion for ceramics at the Creative Arts Center of Dallas. This new pursuit allowed me to merge my personal values with my love for nature through art. Completing my home studio and gallery space in 2022 marked a new equilibrium, where my work as a ceramic artist became not just a career, but a joyful expression of my life experiences.
Reflecting on Balance
Over the years, my perspective on work-life balance has evolved from a rigid separation of work and personal life to a more fluid integration. Initially, the emphasis was on professional achievement, but as my roles shifted, I learned to value the quality of time spent in both work and personal contexts. Today, I view balance as a dynamic and evolving journey, one that adapts to the various chapters of my life, allowing me to grow, express, and connect with the world around me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My approach to ceramics is characterized by an exploration of color, form, and texture. My artistic process blends traditional and innovative techniques. Each piece is a visual and tactile narrative that invites viewers to engage with the work. I strive to capture the beauty and fragility of our environment, the values that shape our lives, and the stories that define our collective human experience. Through my art, I hope to inspire others to contemplate the imprints we leave on the world and, equally, the marks the world leaves on us.
My wall installations are created using multiple oxidation firings and mono-printing techniques, allowing me to layer colors, textures, and images to build depth and nuance. The addition of saggar-fired elements and found objects adds to the dimensionality and to the story of each piece.
My raku and saggar pieces employ a dynamic process steeped in ancient traditions. This technique involves removing ceramic pieces from the kiln at temperatures between 1200°F and 1800°F and placing them in combustible materials like sawdust or paper. The rapid cooling and reduction atmosphere result in unique crackles and color variations. Traditional horsehair and feathers, along with modern copper and colored stains, make each piece truly one-of-a-kind. These firings are a testament to the transformative power of heat and time, adding complexity and character to each creation.
Finally, my ocean-inspired sculptures are hand-built and attempt to capture the fluidity and vibrancy of the ocean’s allure. They have a bit of fantasy and whimsy and a depth of glaze structure that sets them apart.
The journey to where I am today has not been without its challenges. Transitioning from a corporate career to the art world required a significant shift in mindset and approach. It was not an easy path, but my passion for ceramics and the support of mentors like Lynn Armstrong and programs like Naomi Clement’s Finding Your Voice Mentorship Program provided the guidance I needed to persevere.
One of the most important lessons I have learned is the value of patience and persistence. Art is a process of continual learning and growth, and each challenge is an opportunity to refine my skills and deepen my understanding of my craft. I am most proud of my personal development and the unique body of work I have created.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day1
Upon arrival, we would go to Deep Ellum, have lunch at the Pecan Lodge and pick up a pie at the Pie Emporium.
Then we would go to the Nasher Sculpture Center, enjoy the lastest exhibit and sculpture garden.
Home for a quiet dinner and bottle of wine and reminiscing.
Day 2
Breakfast at First Watch.
Dealy Plaza and the Sixth Floor Museum
A walk about town to include Pioneer Plaza, Neiman Marcus and Klyde Warren Park
A late lunch and early happy hour at Yard Bird
Dinner at Bobby’s Airway Grill
Home for a glass of wine
Day 3
Late breakfast at home
A walk and lunch at the Dallas Arboretum (hopefully a weekend so that we can catch some live music)
Dinner at Lucia’s
Day 4
Fort Worth Stockyard cattle drive
Kimbell Art Museum
Dinner at Joe T Garcia’s.
 
Day 5
Shopping and lunch at Northpark Mall
Dinner at The Charles
Day 6
The Dallas Farmer’s Market
Late Lunch at The Ice House and walk on the Katy Trail
Steak on the grill at home

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Lynn Armstrong has greatly influenced my path. A seasoned ceramic artist with over 40 years of experience, she has been a gentle critic and a formidable supporter. As an instructor, friend, and mentor, Lynn has been a gentle critic and a formidable supporter. Her approach to teaching emphasizes both technical skill and creative exploration. Our conversations have often led to breakthroughs in my work, as she encourages me to push boundaries while remaining true to my artistic vision.
The Finding Your Voice Mentorship Program, led by Naomi Clement, was another transformative experience in my artistic development. Naomi’s focus on nurturing myself as an artist and developing an artistic vocabulary helped shift my attention from mere technique to a more holistic approach. This program emphasized the importance of self-discovery in art and encouraged me to delve deeper into what makes my work uniquely mine. Naomi encouraged me to tackle “imposter syndrome” and grow creatively. Her mentorship taught me to articulate and express my artistic intentions more authentically.
These influences have been invaluable in guiding my creative direction, allowing me to merge personal growth with artistic expression.

Instagram: @inner_piece_ceramics

Facebook: https://facebook.com/brenda.anderson.94695

Image Credits
All photos were taken by me.