Hi, I'm Shuba Iyer, a ceramic artist and educator based in Naperville, IL. I stumbled upon clay as a hobby, and it's since become my happy place. With an IT background, I never thought I'd trade keyboards for kilns, but I'm absolutely loving this creative journey. 

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My pottery journey began with a single class, where I discovered the meditative qualities of working with clay. As I continued to learn and grow, I enjoyed experimenting with different techniques, forms, and glazes. Along the way, I've had opportunities to work on exciting projects, including creating custom pottery for a cookbook and being featured in a magazine. These experiences have not only challenged me creatively but also deepened my desire to share the joy of clay with others.

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Working with clay has been a humbling experience, teaching me to be present and let go of control. Every time I think I've mastered a technique, clay reminds me who's boss. I've come to realize that pottery and life have more in common than I thought - both require patience, adaptability, and a willingness to get a little messy. I'm officially hooked, spending more time than I'd like to admit thinking about pottery, watching pottery videos, and geeking out with fellow clay enthusiasts.

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Kneaded Earth, my studio and creative haven, grew from this desire to create a space where people can escape the stresses of everyday life and tap into their creative potential. Through classes, workshops, and collaborations, Kneaded Earth has become a community where art, function, and connection come together. One of the greatest rewards of running this studio is witnessing people from all walks of life come together, share their stories, and discover their creativity. I'm constantly inspired by the people I meet, and I feel incredibly lucky to see students fall in love with clay, watch their stresses melt away as they create, and witness their confidence grow. These moments remind me of the power of art to bring people together and transform lives.

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Welcome to Kneaded Earth, where art meets function, creativity knows no bounds, and the joy of clay is shared with all!