As a child of a WWII Veteran and an Italian war bride, Gloria traveled in Europe where old world architecture and art, carvings and sculpture along with the stories they told began a fascination which continues today. The natural beauty of Northern Italy, the majestic Alpine Mountains, the great forests, castles, and villages of Germany taught her about traditions of quality in craftsmanship. These remain her major sources of inspiration.

Visiting numerous Native American historical sites has influenced and expanded her cultural artistic motifs. With some Cherokee ancestry as well, she has a special affinity for designs of the Woodland Indians and the Southeast Mississippian Culture.

These influences have translated into a body of work known for it's diversity combining both thrown pottery and sculpture. As a result, Gloria creates either one of a kind or limited editions of a particular style. These styles range from Medieval to Art Nouveau to Native American, all are organic in shape and fluid in design. Carved scenes of trees and mountains; using large leaves to create plates, platters, bowls and swag lamps; Art Nouveau faces and Craftsman style vases; Bas Relief sculpture is applied to wall tiles, slab forms and wheel thrown vessels; Garden and bird lover's items and in addition she creates Folk Ware suitable for cottage or castle.

A featured master craftsman at Silver Dollar City National FAll Festival 1980-1989. Over two decades of art airs and Renaissance Festivals, Sweetwood Pottery may be found in galleries and homes throughout the USA and Europe. Numerous awards including Best Artistic Merit of Kansas City Renaissance Festival 1993.

BS in Art Education from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee, 1972. 19 graduate hours with teaching certificates in Art, Speech and Theater, Early Childhood and Elementary Education. Teaching experience includes Primary Art, Kindergarten and various workshops on Pottery making.

Currently demonstrating potter at the Engler Block Fine Arts Mall, Branson, Missouri.