Marchelle Burnham

Marchelle Burnham resides in Adrian, OR. Six months after her first exposure to the wonderful world of ceramic art, Back Door Ceramics, a storefront studio, opened its doors and has endured for 32 years. She pursued all areas of ceramics. She earned every certification provided by the industry. To name a few, Duncan, Gare, Ceramichrome/Mayco, Emboss Art, Stonesoup, Shiva Paint Stiks, and Colors for Earth.

She studied extensively by attending every class available with teachers such as David Hoff, Helen Altieri, and Chelsey Stokes. She entered competitions and won her Peggy and the Masters division a few times. In 1983 she became an ICA teacher and judge. For 28 years held a position on the board and organized the Idaho Ceramic show. Marchelle has judged and organized other fairs/shows/competitions. She is the currently working with the Exhibitors Association which produces 17 shows a year across the United States. Her present work in progress is to create a new awards and judge’s program for the Exhibitors Association, owned and operated by Tim Hayes of Shiloh Molds.

Marchelle and her husband Paul are the creators of the West Cost Ceramic Retreat that has been held for the last 5 years at Camp Yamhill outside Portland Oregon. A three day event that includes, tours of Bullseye Glass and Demos at Rose’s Glass Shop plus 2 days of classes in fired products including glass and Raku. There is a guest teacher invited to give the students an additional style of instruction. The art of Raku is a specialty at Yamhill. Airbrushing and brushstrokes are also an area Marchelle excels in teaching. Her goal as a teacher is to promote ceramics with a little laughter thrown in to sweeten the pot, and keep it alive and well for the future generations.

Marchelle will continue to sell her own designs and pieces as a production ceramist artist with 32 years behind her on this side of the industry. She gives her students and customers a big dose of excitement, encouragement and motivation. Her passion is endless and very contagious.