Who’s Behind Chinese Propane?

As the sun sets on the bustling streets of Yaoli, China, the sound of propane tank deliveries echoes through the city. Though the harmonies of resilience may seem beautiful to some, to others, they are a haunting reminder of the daily struggles faced by the hardworking citizens. The clanging of metal tanks and the hiss [...]

Stepping out of our comfort zones (and embracing the unknown).

The day I met Toby and Dingdong at a Chinese porcelain sink factory started with a bumpy ride in what I believe was an old Datsun-like car from the 1980s. I could feel every bump and pothole on the mostly dirt road that led us out to the factory. The car was far from luxurious, [...]

Shangyu Dinosaurs

Part 2 So I really got into the dinosaurs... This is a continuation of my time in Shangyu, China, at the Shangyu International Celadon Center and this is how I made the works you see below: Everybody smoked in China and there were ashtrays everywhere, especially in restaurants which was where I went to gather [...]

I Made Dinosaur Platters from the Master’s Work

I know they thought I was crazy... Through my exploration of ceramic art, I have found inspiration in the theme of extinction. I had the incredible opportunity while in Shangyu, to collaborate with the pottery gurus at the Celadon Center. Their large porcelain platters were masterfully wheelthrown, but lacked a concept that spoke to me. [...]

12th Cheongju International Craft Competition – May 5th Deadline

The Cheongju International Craft Competition is a highly acclaimed international craft competition that will take place in Cheongju, South Korea in 2023. The competition is organized by the Cheongju International Craft Biennale Organizing Committee and is held every two years to promote and support contemporary craft and design. Artists and designers from all around the [...]

Making Porcelain Slip for Slipcasting

Slipcasting is a popular technique for creating ceramic objects. (Here are some examples of my work, which was all done in slipcast). The process involves pouring a liquid clay mixture, called slip, into a plaster mold. As the plaster absorbs the water from the slip, a solid layer of clay forms on the interior of [...]

Ceramics in Architecture

Ceramics have been used in the design and architecture industry for centuries, influencing the aesthetics and functionality of buildings and structures. From ancient civilizations to modern-day architects, ceramics have been a vital component in the construction of some of the world's most iconic buildings. In this article, we will explore how ceramics have influenced design [...]

Craft Won’t Die: An Essay on Contemporary Craft and the Resilience It Has to the Threat of AI

In recent years, there has been much debate about the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on different industries, including the creative arts. Some have argued that AI has the potential to revolutionize creative work, while others have suggested that it will render certain forms of creativity obsolete. However, when it comes to contemporary craft, it [...]

The Yingge Ceramics Museum in Taiwan

https://videopress.com/v/FQCnXAAQ?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true Beautiful water sculpture just outside the ceramics library The Yingge Ceramics Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the art of pottery. Located in New Taipei City, Taiwan, this museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the history and culture of ceramics. I was fortunate to have won the Gold Prize for [...]