Julie Wiggins received a BFA from East Carolina University in Ceramics.  In 2005, she received an honorary degree from the Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute in China, where she focused her studies on traditional Eastern techniques. After graduating college, she began her ceramic career in Charlotte where she developed a body of work, managed Clayworks ceramic studio and helped establish Thrown Together Potters. Among other awards and grants, she was the recipient of “NC Best in Craft” from Our State Magazine in 2021, Skutt Ceramic Artist of the Year (2016) and “Best in Show” at the Potters’ Market (2022) at the Mint Museum where she is represented in their permanent collection. Julie’s passion for teaching extends to craft schools, art organizations and community centers nationwide, as well as, historically recognized areas of China, Italy and Greece. In 2021, she moved her home and studio to Bakersville, NC tucked into the Blue Ridge Parkway where she lives, makes pots, fires her noborigama wood kiln and tends to her enchanted gardens near Penland School of Crafts with her pup, Leon Bridges.