Kay Finch (1903-1993)

Continuing on the artist theme, ceramic artist Kay Finch (1903-1993) built her studio and showroom next to Five Crowns where Crown Cove Assisted Living is now located.  It was later Sam’s Seafood and Don the Beachcomber. ​

F​inch attended the Memphis Academy of Fine Arts in the 1920s and would move with her husband to California in 1929.  She did some freelance work and teaching before opening a small studio in a former milking shed.  As demand for her work grew, she and her husband, Braden Finch, bought a two lot parcel of land on PCH and had her studio next to her home.  Demand for her work shot up during WW2 when imports were stopped and she expanded her studio and showroom.  By the late 1940s, she employed as many as 65 employees, all the pieces were made by hand, with each designed by Finch.  Her designs were known for their color and distinctive whimsical design.  You can find many of her pieces on eBay today, generally from $30-$300.

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