Our Story…
The Clay Creations Studio is a family affair that was begun by Jenise McCardell in 1980. Jenise received an Associate’s Degree in Graphics at Key West Community College and a BFA in Ceramics at University of Florida. She moved to the French Quarter in New Orleans after graduating and for the first dozen years worked out of craft carts at the old Jax Brewery and Riverwalk overlooking the mighty Mississippi River. She relocated her business to Bay St. Louis, MS in 1993, setting up shop in a historic shotgun house on Main Street.
Clay Creations are handmade sculptures of homes, businesses, churches and schools which are primarily located in New Orleans and along the Gulf Coast. The pieces are sculpted from white clay, hand painted and fired twice in a temperature kiln. Countless pieces from well over 1000 designs have been formed over the years.She was eventually joined by husband Mark Currier, a potter and “mold maker”.Jenise has a faithful following of customers who collect memories through her artistry. Her favorite creations are custom pieces made for customers who provide her with photos of their homes and businesses. Clay Creations shares a historic art deco building with Gallery 220, a co-op of over 25 local and regional artists, in Old Town Bay St. Louis. Y’all come, visit one of the oldest continuously operating businesses in Old Town, and experience a working clay studio. Jenise will be expecting you!