Susy O’Donnell is a celebrated Brown County potter and a beloved figure in the Nashville art scene. For decades, she has been a cornerstone of the artisan community, creating timeless pottery that feels both functional and beautiful. Each piece—whether a simple mug or an elegant decorative work—reflects the earthy strength of clay while capturing a spirit of quiet elegance.

Susy O’Donnell: Brown County’s Beloved Potter

Susy began her pottery journey with a love of form and function, creating everyday pieces that invite use as much as admiration. Bowls, mugs, and pitchers carry a warmth that makes them feel like old friends at the table, while her larger works stand out as statement art. Over the years, her craft has evolved, but her connection to clay and to Brown County’s rich artistic traditions has remained constant.

Today, her pottery can be found at the T.C. Steele State Historic Site and Brown County Art Guild in downtown Nashville, Indiana. There, she exhibits alongside other fine artists and artisans who help carry forward the county’s reputation as an arts destination. Visitors are drawn to her mastery of wheel and glaze. They also love the sense of comfort and authenticity her work brings into a home.

Why Susy O’Donnell Belongs on Your Brown County Itinerary

Exploring the local art scene is an essential part of any trip to Brown County. Susy’s pottery embodies the spirit of the area—creative, welcoming, and deeply tied to tradition. Just as T.C. Steele helped put Brown County on the map as an artist’s colony more than a century ago, today’s artisans like Susy carry that legacy forward. Whether you’re looking for a functional piece you’ll use daily or a handcrafted gift to take home, her work offers something both personal and enduring.

Insider Tip: Visit the Brown County Art Guild on Main Street in Nashville and the T.C. Steele State Historic Site to see Susy’s work in person. Both spots showcase her pottery in different settings—one in the heart of downtown and the other surrounded by the inspiring landscapes that influenced generations of artists. Take your time browsing as each stop offers a unique glimpse into Brown County’s rich artistic heritage.

Full Disclosure

Susy is also my tennis partner and a fellow Nashville denizen—so when I say she’s one of the most talented and kind-hearted artisans you’ll meet, I mean it both on and off the court!

Plan Your Visit

When you stay at the 1891 Schoolhouse Inn, you’ll be just a country drive from downtown Nashville, making it easy to pop into the Brown County Art Guild. Or, if you’re at Helmsburg Homestead, you’ll be minutes from the Village, so a gallery stop fits seamlessly into your day of shopping, dining, and exploring. Add Susy’s pottery to your itinerary—you’ll take home more than a souvenir, you’ll take home a piece of Brown County.