The village of Kasongan in central Java is home to dozens of potters, and represents Kate’s entry into the complex world of international development work. Sponsored by the American non-profit, Aid to Artisans, Kate, along with her late husband, Phillip Gearheart, introduced key innovations to these traditional artisans. While Phillip focused on new kiln technology and clay refining, Kate developed new product designs ranging from garden urns and birdbaths to lamps and bath accessories. Featured here are some of the garden product prototypes designed by Kate. Today, Kate maintains her own pottery studio where she makes one-of-a-kind pottery, tiles, mosaics, and bas-relief sculptures in stoneware and terra cotta.
