About Spiral

Spiral Clay Collective is a private pottery studio established in 2020 by founding members Olivia Brassing’ram, Emma Umberger, and Cidney Olineacz. The studio is located South of the James River in Richmond, Virginia. As of 2023 Spiral has grown to include five ceramic artists that each explore their own creative practice with the support of the other members. The communal style of the studio helps each artist develop their own work individually while engaging with, and learning from one another. Follow Spiral on social media and join the newsletter for the latest information on what’s going on!

Meet The Artists


Emma Umberger

Emma Umberger is a ceramic artist and designer based in Richmond, Virginia. She received her BFA in Graphic Design and a minor in Craft and Material Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2021. Emma has been working with clay since 2016 and was one of the founding members of Spiral Clay Collective when they began in 2020. Her current ceramic practice focuses on creating functional wares for everyday use in the home that spark joy. She focuses on the materiality and purpose of her pieces in order to create harmony between design and function. At Spiral Clay Collective, Emma is currently working with glaze chemistry to further customize and perfect the glazes she uses in her ceramic work.

For more information and images of Emma’s work check out her website emmaumberger.com and instagram @emmaumbergerceramics


Olivia Brassing’ram

Olivia Brassing’ram is an American artist born in Maui, Hawaii and currently resides in Richmond, Virginia. Olivia's current art practice focuss in clay and functional pottery. She very recently earned her degree in Craft and Material Studies, along with a minor in Art History, at Virginia Commonwealth University in 2022.

For more information and images of Olivia’s work check out her website oliviabrassingram.com and Instagram @oliviabrassart.


Commissions, collaborations or questions? Contact us!

Do you have an idea for a project? Looking for collaborators, a custom piece, or set of ceramic work? Let’s work together! Send us a message, email or DM and tell us about it!