Taylor Woodruff

Tri-lingual ceramicist and studio technician with seven years of hands-on practice in handbuilding, wheel throwing, and atmospheric kiln firing. Soda-kiln operator and studio monitor at Cal Poly Humboldt, 2021–2024, and a 2026 ceramics artist-in-residence at AIR Vallauris, France. Committed to craft, community, and making studio spaces work well for everyone.

Experience

Spring 2026 · Vallauris, France

Ceramics Artist in Residence

AIR Vallauris · Atelier Tremplin

Fabricated a collection of hand-built sculptures and thrown vessels, experimenting with diverse techniques for texture development.
Formulated glazes from dry materials, using both established and custom recipes.
Conducted instructional demonstrations and workshops for the public.
Upheld studio and shared-space cleanliness and safety standards, and helped organize gallery events and exhibitions.

2021 — 2024 · Arcata, CA

Studio Monitor, Ceramics Department

Cal Poly Humboldt

Oversaw daily studio operations — kiln loading and unloading, scheduling of firings, equipment upkeep, and student support.
Served as the primary operator of the department's soda kiln.

2013 — 2024 · WA · AK · CA

Wildland Firefighter & Smokejumper

North Cascades Smokejumper Base & others

Twelve years in wildland fire suppression, including seven years as a smokejumper.
Team coordination and high-pressure decision-making; rigging parachutes and inspecting and maintaining harnesses and safety equipment.
Welcomed visiting members of the public and routinely led tours of the base.

Route Setter

Far North Climbing Gym · 2017–2025

Freelance Interpreter & Translator

English / Spanish · 2017–present

Core Skills

— Gas, electric & soda kiln operation

— Hand building, wheel throwing & surface decoration

— Glaze mixing from dry materials

— Studio & equipment maintenance

— Instructional demos & student support

— Leadership & team management

— Level head in stressful environments

— First Aid / CPR certified