Born in the middle of a west Texas cotton field, Jo's childhood toys consisted of sand, water, and imagination. Jo's fleeting creations led towards a need for more a permanent medium.

When she worked with clay for the first time in college, she knew it was her path. Family, kids, and work kept her busy until she relocated to Nevada. Upon moving to Fallon, she began teaching elementary art in the local schools and ceramics at Western Nevada College.

Finally, she began immersing herself in her art, setting up a studio workshop in her rural Fallon home. Jo and her husband, Tom, now spend their time between Fallon and Austin. They (Tom is also an artist) have set up a studio, "Clay My Way," in an historic building in the quaint mountain town. They relax in a charming house next door that dates back to the 1800s.

Austin continues to fuel Jo's creativity. You will find her work (and occasionally Jo) at Main Street Shops Co-op through the summer, while Tom welcomes visitors at their studio on Paul Street.

"Clay is like a best friend. Always there for fun and relaxation . . ."