Mud Man Pots

Mud Man's Bio

My home studio is located in Hingham, MA on the South Shore of Boston. The convenience of throwing and firing from home is great although it brings the drawback of isolation. Fortunately, I have the company of my wife, Jan (a chemistry teacher who will someday turn me into a "fireman" with her glaze formulating assistance) and our four kids: Ben, Sarah, Grant, Scott. They are quick to provide encouragement, feedback and moral support.

I have had the opportunity to learn from numerous skilled potters but two have had significant influence on my potting skills. Michael Gabriel, of St. Paul, MN, is an artist of multiple mediums and a very skilled potter. Michael is not afraid of taking chances with his throwing and his glazing and produces functional ware that is a pleasure to use. Michael's natural enthusiasm is infectious and is a large reason why I stuck with pottery in the early stages.

Odion Ogogo, of Lagos, Nigeria (and Hounslow, England) comes to clay from a very different culture than Michael but is as skilled and enthusiastic. Odion throws exceptionally fast and thin and showed me what it takes to be a production potter. Odion introduced me to larger shapes and taught me how to make the African water jugs. More importantly, Odion shared his techniques for smoke firing pots. I've always appreciated the techniques and skills these two artists have shared with me but I'm especially glad that clay introduced me to their friendship.

I do not have an 'artistic statement' of my own to share. I do, however, believe in the oft-stated maxim that "a pot is not complete until it's been used". I love to throw pots and then know that people are using them. My hope is that people will want to touch and pickup the pots that I make. I derive great learning and encouragement by selling at craft fairs and talking with potential customers. Seeing what shapes and glazes prompt a pot to be picked up is invaluable to me. This interaction is the "moment of truth".