Textured Dish/Platter by Paula Cusa

Name: Paula Cusa

What county do you live in?: Ulster

Tell us about yourself: I am a Hudson Valley resident who recently discovered a love of making pottery! I originally grew up here, in New Paltz. I moved away to attend College and then worked as a Paralegal for 25 years in Albany. I moved back to the Hudson Valley about 10 years ago to help my Mom navigate with an Alzheimers diagnosis. My Dad later on developed dementia and I found myself caring for both of them, allowing them to stay in their home until they passed. After grieving the loss of my parents and sort of attempting to recalibrate and decide on the next chapter of my life, I decided to take a local pottery class. I instantly loved it and found myself going in to the weekend open studios as well. About six months later, I bought my own pottery wheel and started acquiring all the supplies I needed (and just had to have) ! Since then, I have been making pieces in my home studio and I am loving it!

What year did you start living/working in the Hudson Valley?: 1973

What are some of your favorite things to do in the region?: I love all of the various hiking, biking, walking trails. There are so many events and live music and places of interest here, so one is never bored!