Mindy Smiley
Ardell Roberts
Congratulations to April’s ceramics artist of the month, Mindy Smiley. Mindy grew up in Tempe. Her husband, Paul, is from Chicago. They moved to PebbleCreek in 2020 after finding the lock and leave villas worked well for their “snowbird” lifestyle. Their daughter lives nearby in Phoenix. Mindy joined Paul halfway through his Air Force career when he was stationed in Alaska. Mindy loved the change of seasons there and the winter outdoor sports. Paul’s last duty station was at Luke Air Force base. Living in Palm Valley they became familiar with PebbleCreek. The move to PebbleCreek on retirement was obvious to them. They spend their summers in the Chicago area as Mindy does not like the heat here.
Mindy’s first degree is from ASU in Sports and Exercise Science. She spent several years doing all jobs related to a gym. She went back to school to get a nursing degree and worked in this field for 22 years. Mindy and Paul enjoy traveling and have done a lot of it. Mindy’s favorite place in the world is Ireland. She loves the greenery, wide open spaces, history, people, and beer.
Mindy admired many wonderful ceramics pieces at her next-door neighbor’s house, Alice. Alice invited her to come to Ceramics and make her own masterpieces. Mindy took to ceramics immediately and she says she’s about filled her house with her ceramic pieces and has run out of room. She’s now looking to make items for other people. She may need to start bringing her pieces to her Chicago home.
Mindy keeps busy with Ceramics Club and plays Samba as well as other PebbleCreek activities. She’s joined the Art Club and volunteers for Kare Bears. We are grateful for her service.
Mindy has tried many ceramics techniques. She started by making a ceramic truck, which can carry themed cargo that she can change out depending on the holiday or season. Mindy was enamored with the variety of Christmas pieces and has made many of them. Her favorite pieces are two large nutcrackers. She used acrylic paint on these and they bring her joy when she looks at them. Keep up the good work, Mindy!