Meet the Potter
Artist Bio
Lily Petro is a ceramic artist based in Pennsylvania. In 2023, she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Arts, with an emphasis in Ceramics, from West Chester University. Lily discovered her passion for working with clay during a high school ceramics class, where she was captivated by the process of creating both functional and decorative works of art.
Currently, Lily serves as a ceramics instructor and studio technician at the Chester County Art Association in West Chester, PA.
Artist Statement
As a ceramic artist, my work centers on the intersection of form and function. I aim to create pieces that are not only visually engaging but also practical and enjoyable for everyday use.
Functionality and durability are key aspects of my process. I strive to craft pieces that have a tactile, sensory quality—one that can only be truly appreciated in person. I enjoy making functional items such as tea ware, dinnerware, and decorative pieces like vases and planters.
My creative process begins with throwing forms on the wheel, followed by trimming at the leather-hard stage and altering the pieces to achieve the desired look.
Ceramics allows me to express my passion for form, color, and process. Every piece is the product of exploration and experimentation, making each one unique. Experimentation is essential to my process—it helps me avoid overthinking the outcome and encourages spontaneity. Through testing and experimenting, I’ve developed a deep love for stoneware, porcelain, and high-fired glazes.
CRAFT SHOWS
Good Neighbor Day- Downingtown, PA
7/4/2023 & 7/4/2024
Chester County Art Walk- West Chester PA
9/28/2024
Downingtown Fall Fest- Downingtown, PA
10/6/2024
Abington Art Center Craft Fair- Abington, PA
11/17/2024
Christmas market- West Chester, PA
12/14/24
Linvilla Orchard Winter Market- Media, PA
12/21-22/24
EXHIBITIONS
Long View Gallery holiday exhibition- Long view gallery- Chester springs, PA
November-December 2024
Art in the Woods show- Chester county art association- west Chester, PA
October 12, 2024
Faculty Student Show- Chester County Art Association- West Chester, PA
December 2023-january 2024
Gifted Exhibition- Art Trust- West Chester, PA
November 2023- January 2024
Art of the Cup Exhibition- Goggleworks- Reading, PA
October- December 2023
Senior BFA Exhibition– West Chester University of Pennsylvania, West Chester, PA
April- May 2023
Spring Revival Exhibition- Scrambled Gallery- New Hope, PA
April- July 2023
Not that Brandywine Tradition, Wild Clay exhibition- West Chester University of Pennsylvania- West Chester, PA
October 2022- December 2022