Statement

My work in clay is a tactile exploration of the beauty found in nature. I am deeply influenced by the lush flora found within the memories of my childhood on Guam, as well as the stunning landscapes found among my current home in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

I employ the use of highly textured, hand built forms with dynamic glaze application to preserve the intricacies of nature that are sometimes overlooked. I hope that through my work, the viewer can experience the same profound appreciation and closeness to nature that I’ve found. 

Artist Bio

Abigail Cruz Colton is a ceramic artist based in Travelers Rest, SC, and the founder of Pårådisu Pottery. Following a career in real estate, Colton returned to ceramics in 2022, quickly gaining recognition for her work. Her Mahålang series led to her selection for The Royal Collection via Guam’s Sihek Recovery Project, and her work has been featured at Wild Hare Gallery, Topsoil Restaurant, and the Artist Collective of Spartanburg. She was selected as a SC Arts Commission Emerging Artist Grantee for 2026 and will be the Artist in Residence for The Reserve at Lake Keowee in 2027. 

Beyond the studio, Colton is a dedicated educator and advocate for artistic therapy. She taught at Furman University’s OLLI program in 2025 and currently leads advanced courses at Greenville’s Senior Action and the Greer Center for Creative Arts, specialized workshops for Prisma Health’s Cancer Support Community, Upstate Warrior Solution, and Shriners Children's Hospital. By blending creativity with community-building, Colton uses Pårådisu Pottery to foster healing and connection throughout the Upstate.