Combining wood and clay is an idea I’ve had for quite awhile as they are organic materials that have the capacity to be shaped in almost limitless forms.
Traditional “Folk Art” has always fascinated me, somewhat primitive/unrefined design and fabrication, usually with a touch of whimsy and an element of fun. Using the materials that are available and simply making it work… simple art from a simple perspective.
Over the years I’ve gathered a collection of old recycled wood, cut off scraps and found and salvaged objects that are too unique to throw away. Currently I’m allowing the materials themselves to determine shape, form and texture by using both pottery and woodworking skills. In some pieces, I’ll employ muted design elements, while in others; I’ll be bold to create contemporary/nouveau folk art if you will. I learned that art is everywhere; a simple, cheesy backscratcher made for a tourist market can help define a piece.
My ceramic elements are stoneware, fired to cone 6 to add durability. Rather than traditional glazes, I’m using latex paints and topcoats for finishing, with the same application techniques that I’ve used in woodworking projects.
I hope that you will enjoy these pieces in your home or office as much as I’ve enjoyed bringing them to you.
About the Artist
In 1971, at St. Leo College, I took a pottery class from Dennis Phillips, and my life changed.
Any thoughts of using my degree in philosophy and pursuing a career in law began to fade away. Clay opened up an entirely new avenue for me. I discovered that the need to create was who I am.
In early 1974, at Dennis’ invitation, I returned to San Antonio, Florida to work in his pottery studio, and for two years we made a go of it, in spite of a tough economic market.
I was always able to supplement my income through carpentry and woodworking (thanks to my father) and eventually landed in New Hope, Pa. to work with my brother doing build-outs for mainly bars and restaurants.
I had the good fortune to meet some incredibly talented craftsmen/woodworkers that live and work in that area and was able to pick up design and fabrication techniques helping out with their projects.
Phil Powell stands out amongst them. I met Phil prior to moving to New Hope, through my brother, Mike. Phil’s’ sense of design, so freely incorporating different elements and styles was so organic and natural, and above all fearless. He knew I loved clay and would occasionally ask me in conversations over the years when I thought I’d get back to playing with mud.
Fast-forward almost forty years and earning a living with a career in designing and building cabinetry and furniture in South Florida, I‘ve finally been able to get back to playing with mud.