
Sylvia "Skip" Cunningham Creative Clay - Online Pottery Auction to Benefit DAC Clay Studio

Sylvia “Skip” Cunningham spent her life translating diverse influences from her travels and experiences into her chosen medium: clay. Her work reflects a creative curiosity and experimentation with shape, color, surface, and firing methods, ranging from figurative and functional pieces to whimsical compositions that blend geometric and organic forms.
Born in upstate New York, Skip discovered her passion for clay at age seven, taking hand-building classes at a local museum. Her artistic journey took her to California for high school and Stanford University, where she earned a degree in Design. Skip’s career evolved from painting and set design to teaching in Bangkok and exploring art throughout Asia and Europe, all while fostering her love for ceramics.
Having moved 21 times by age 36, Skip saw clay as a grounding constant in her otherwise transient life. Settling in North Carolina, she embraced hand-building for its expressive freedom, creating pieces inspired by her rich experiences.
The Durham Arts Council became a significant part of Skip’s artistic life when she joined the DAC Clay Studio in 2000, then located in a Tobacco Warehouse on Foster Street. Initially a student, Skip quickly became a studio assistant, a role she held for nearly 20 years. She shared her knowledge generously, patiently explaining her methods and inspiring those around her with her passion for ceramics.
Skip’s creations evolved over time, beginning with intricately carved bowls filled with fruit and animals and large, fluid coffee table pieces. She later became best known for her unique teapots, decorated with homemade stamps and unconventional shapes. In addition to her original work, Skip occasionally repaired beloved ceramics for community members, showcasing her deep connection to the craft.
Skip’s influence extended beyond her own art. She was a dedicated supporter of the DAC Clay Studio and the arts in general. Her home was adorned with a stunning collection of local art, from ceramics to wall art and metalwork, demonstrating her commitment to the artistic community.
Following her passing, a large body of Skip’s work was generously donated from her estate to the Durham Arts Council to benefit the DAC Clay Studio. Proceeds from the auction of her works will directly support our clay programs, sustaining and expanding arts education programs that inspire creativity and enrich lives throughout our community.
Skip’s beautiful creations will be on display at DAC and the online auction will remain open until February 17, offering an opportunity to own a piece of Skip’s legacy while supporting arts education in Durham.