Cobb Mountain Art and Ecology Project
I had the pleasure of being an Artist-in-Residence at Cobb from October 2022 to May 2023. Scott Parady, the founder, is a generous, funny, and highly skilled ceramic artist. It was a joy to get to know him and his family during my time there. The other residents were equally lovely, and I felt fortunate to be part of such a kind and supportive community.
Scott is cultivating something truly special on Cobb Mountain—a vibrant and passionate community centered around wood-firing, shared meals, knowledge exchange, and mutual support.
A standout feature for any dog lover: Cobb is incredibly dog-friendly—some might even call it dog heaven. Scott himself has a pack of five well-behaved and friendly dogs, and the expansive property provides ample room for dogs to run, roll, and explore to their hearts’ content.
I lived in the loft above the studio alongside two other residents. In January, a third joined us. Additional housing included a resident house and two private tiny homes. With these accommodations, Cobb can host up to 8 or 9 residents at a time.
The location is beautiful but remote. The nearest grocery store is about 20–30 minutes away, requiring a drive down winding mountain roads. This distance, combined with high gas prices, made errands and commuting a bit costly. Some of my fellow residents also found it challenging to find part-time work nearby, as local businesses are limited and often require commutes of 20 minutes or more.
For wine enthusiasts, Napa Valley and Sonoma are just an hour’s drive away, and the area is surrounded by lesser-known local vineyards worth exploring.
The studio itself is spacious and heated by a cozy wood stove. Each resident has their own studio space—some private, some shared—and electric wheels are available. Artists are expected to bring their own tools and materials.
One of the most exciting aspects of the residency is the large-scale wood firings, which occur every two to three months. These events are true community efforts—everyone pitches in. The kilns are well-maintained and offer unique firing experiences. Scott’s firing techniques result in vibrant, ash-rich surfaces with heavy reduction. If you’re staying in the loft, be aware that personal space is limited during firings, as the communal kitchen is often used by firing crews and visiting guests. Still, the atmosphere remains positive, lively, and welcoming.
Cobb also offers a work-exchange option to reduce rent. Tasks vary, but typically include wood preparation for firings, land and garden maintenance, and general upkeep of the studio. The property is stunning, with walking trails, wildflowers, towering trees, and even a koi pond that’s truly something to behold.
