I was introduced to polymer clay in 1990 and became obsessed immediately. Classes at a local arts center led me to help form the Columbus Polymer Clay Guild. Then I decided to attend the national retreat and somehow became coeditor of the National Polymer Clay Guild’s newsletter “Polyinformer” with Cynthia Tinapple. I kept stumbling forward into all sorts of unexpected and delightful trouble.

In my home, I hosted artists/instructors from around the country for our local classes, and I traveled to a growing number of major events. All that exposure gave me incredible opportunities. I naturally wanted to purchase the works of my growing group of artist friends. Whenever auction bidding started, I noticed that heads turned in my direction. I’d earned myself a reputation!

I’m not sure if most serious collectors purchase pieces with the intention of assembling an important collection or back into a situation like I did. I purchased what I liked and wanted to wear or live with. It was when Judy Belcher organized the first Synergy in Baltimore and asked me to display my collection that I realized what I’d done. 

While my own artwork transitioned to other mediums, my love for polymer clay art has not diminished. And I was right; to this day, the colorful collection of polymer pieces and warm friendships bring me joy and fond memories.

Editor’s Note: Hollie, along with Cynthia Tinapple, were early members of the fledgling National Polymer Clay Guild (Now the International Polymer Clay Association). Together, they edited and distributed the NPCG newsletter. The polymer community is here today because of Hollie and Cynthia’s dedication to polymer clay as a fine art medium.