aka. Stella Bonnie Spurlin, Spurlin Ceramics – United States
Stella Bodey (1905-1971) and her tiki mugs were featured in several places, including The Islander and The Tahitian in Los Angeles and the Mahi Mahi in Tennessee. She worked closely with Oceanic Arts to supply new businesses with mugs and bowls and according to Bob & Leroy, they have over 25 tiki mugs and bowls of hers within their archive that were created for different bars & restaurants. Her glazes are quite distinctive, ranging from pink to muted greens and variated yellow/brown "rusted" glazes.
Stella Bonnie Spurlin was born in Los Angeles. She lived for a time in Lynwood, Los Angeles. She was married to Douglas Raymond Bodey in 1923. She died in Sweet Home, Linn, Oregon and is buried at Mount Crest Abbey Mausoleum, Salem, Marion, Oregon.
When Stella sold her business and molds in the early 1960s, DESERT CERAMICS took up the mantle for a time (starting at least as early as 1965).
In the years since, Stella's designs have often been revived and duplicated by other makers, recognized as classics.