barbara willis studied under laura andreson and glen lukens. in 1942 she started a small home studio at her parent's house. by the late 40s her business grew so she moved to a larger location in north hollywood - but she remained very hands on and kept her business small. she had to give up her ceramics business in 1958 following a glut of cheap imports that compromised the livelihood of many california potters.
in the early 90s she found a vintage piece of hers at a flea market. one thing led to another and she was contacted by a collector of her work and found out that she had a very big following and was considered to be a legend. she took ceramics up again and continues to work today in her malibu home.
i love these pendants and you can see more of them here
Hi Cathy, I really enjoy reading your blog with all its mid-century goodness! I met Barbara Willis (and got her autograph) at the LA Pottery Show in Pasadena in February. She was so kind and gracious! Saw these pendants in person and they are gorgeous. I have a few of her older pottery pieces too.
Posted by: linda | September 10, 2009 at 11:00 AM