About SunSoul Bowls

SunSoul Bowls blossomed from a deep passion for earth and art. My name is Aliyah, and I am a potter currently based in Durham, North Carolina. Since 2016, I have been on a journey of exploring clay as a medium, continually learning and admiring its diversity.

I earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts in K-12 Art Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where I concentrated in Sculpture and Ceramics. Throughout my career, I have taught art across every grade level within the K-12 public school system and have also taught ceramics at local community arts centers as well as my personal studio spaces. Teaching has deepened my appreciation for the grounding nature of clay and the meaningful ways it can connect people to creativity.

My work primarily consists of functional wheel-thrown ceramic ware along with decorative hand-built forms. I often combine contrasting clay bodies to create marbled surfaces, alongside minimalistic and whimsical underglaze-painted pieces. Bowls remain my favorite form to create, and my collection includes a variety of styles such as everyday bowls, berry bowls, lidded bowls, yarn bowls, and worry bowls.

In addition to bowls, I also create other functional pieces such as mugs, sip cups, and small vases that are designed for everyday use. Alongside these forms, I have developed a growing collection of smaller whimsical items including trinket bowls, keychains, earrings, magnets, and miniature cats. I also offer pottery painting kits designed for all ages to enjoy together as a creative experience.

For me, wheel throwing is a meditative practice that requires breath, presence, and a steady mind. Working with clay feels deeply aligned with who I am, and I look forward to continuing to create and share this beautiful medium with others.

-Aliyah McAllister