Hi, I’m Sophie

My name is Sophie McGowan, the creator behind Mountain Based Pottery. I am located in Central Pennsylvania. I’ve been making pottery for over ten years. My work features bright bold color combinations as well as earthy natural tones. Designing each shape to be comfortable for each person. I create functional sculpture on mugs, featuring horses and trout.

My whole life I’ve been around horses and started riding around 7 years old. My grandparents always had horses and that is where I started to ride. For one year I lived next to a woman who had 30 plus ponies. Not only did she have these ponies, she also made pottery. She taught my sister and I how to sculpt the head of a horse.

I barrel raced in 4h, Jr high, High school and College Rodeo. During that time I took ceramics classes every chance I could. I got my own wheel when I was 16 and still use that wheel today.

I grew up in Coburn Pennsylvania, where three different creeks come together. It is very well known for its trout fishing. My brother inspired me to start sculpting trout on functional pieces. Showing me all these amazing photos from Chile and Montana.