Nikki has taught adult and children’s hand-building and wheel-throwing classes at the Willamette Art Center for six years. She also teaches in elementary and middle schools in the Salem-Keizer School District after-school program, as well as assisting with the WAC field trip events. Nikki is the WAC Facilities Coordinator, responsible for all aspects of the studio and grounds, including firing the kilns and mixing glazes. Nikki grew up in Los Angeles and graduated from Rosary College outside of Chicago with a degree in Biology. She attended the University of London for one year. Nikki taught Chemistry and other science classes at Pacific Palisades High School for six years before moving to Salem in 1997 where she currently resides with her husband and son, Zachary, on a farm featuring a garden, chickens, and two adorable dogs. “I’ve had a passion for clay since high school and have been playing with clay on a daily basis for the past 16 years.” Nikki creates earthy, functional pottery with unique glaze designs and textural elements. She also produces abstract wall hangings and sculptures. Her pottery has been featured at the River Gallery in Independence, the Elsinore Gallery, and can currently be seen in the WAC Oaks Gallery.