Valerie Daoust

Valerie’s journey with clay began in 2020 as a way to find balance during the pandemic. After taking a few local classes, she was immediately hooked, leading her to establish a dedicated home studio in Embrun.

Coming from a professional background as a regulatory analyst in the aviation sector, Valerie finds a unique sense of peace in the organic, tactile nature of ceramics. She is best known for her bright, colorful aesthetic, creating vibrant pieces that bring a pop of joy to everyday life. Her work focuses on practical items for the home—such as oversized bowls, cozy mugs, and planters—that blend utility with a cheerful, modern energy.

Her making philosophy is "same same but different"; because every item is handcrafted, each piece carries its own distinct personality. For Valerie, the most rewarding part of the process is watching a customer discover the exact, colorful piece that feels like it was made specifically for them.

When she isn’t covered in clay at the wheel, Valerie can usually be found in rural Ottawa wrangling her two high-energy dogs or tending to her flock of ten chickens.