We Are CORTERRA

Nate fell in love with ceramics in high school, taking his first class and realizing that clay could be both functional and beautiful. He built a home studio in his parents’ garage, started selling at the Gig Harbor Farmers Market, and stocked his work in local boutiques.

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When Nate left for college, he didn’t have access to the studio, so ceramics took a backseat. That pause became an important time for growth. He started a business called IGM, photographing and managing social media for clients, and learned a lot about creativity, patience, and running a business.

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Years later, Nate and Shea built a home studio of their own. Coming from a background in musical theatre and classical voice, Shea had always appreciated the slow, tangible process of creating art. When she discovered ceramics, she fell in love with shaping something tangible and lasting as opposed to performance art. Together, they found a way to ground themselves, slow down, and pour intention and care into each piece.

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Today, they spend their days in the studio, experimenting, creating, and chasing Carl when he claims a piece of clay as his own. Ceramics isn’t just a craft for them. It’s a way to transform energy, time, and love into objects that bring light and remind them of the beauty in patience and care.