Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Deana Hicks of North Phoenix, AZ

We recently had the chance to connect with Deana Hicks and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Deana, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
Being retired has opened up more opportunities for me to improve my pottery skills. I start the day getting up when the sun says it is time. It is wonderful to no longer have to set an alarm or rush to work. I have my coffee outside if the weather allows, and read the verse of the day, and short study plan on the bible app www.youversion.com. Starting the day with God’s word and a prayer helps to start my day off great!

Next, I decide what exercise I will do for the day, and what pottery projects need to be worked on. There is planning and researching of subjects, constructing and marketing.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! My name is Deana Hicks. I am a ceramic artist specializing in hand-built pottery. Hand building is different in that the clay works are created by hand rather than using a wheel. It involves rolling out the clay like dough, then forming and creating by hand.

I live in Phoenix Arizona. My style is somewhat southwest bohemian, like me! My work is inspired by life experiences of mine or others. I am also inspired by the desert, nature, and cultures of the southwest and the awe of God’s creations.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My grandmother Pearl Vineyard. I am very much like her. She enjoyed working outside much more than working in the house. She helped my grandfather on the farm, gardened, and did just about every artistic craft/hobby you can think of. She did woodworking, photography, painting, and played several musical instruments, but she excelled at ceramics! My first experience with clay was in her kitchen, when she handed me some clay to make whatever I wanted. There was no teaching, or instruction, just play with the clay!

What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
I have learned to heal wounds by working with clay and trusting in God’s plan for my life.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
I would hope that they would say God, family, and pottery, in that order. I need to improve and work on this for sure!

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
In the quiet of nature where I feel God’s presence the most: the beach, the mountains, and even my back yard.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Photos are from Pottery by Deana Hicks

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