Even after 30 years of pottery-making, the potential of clay and its unpredictable nature fascinates me. The smell of clay as I open a new box, the shaping of wet mud as it takes on a new form, the spark of a new glaze as a piece comes from the fire of the kiln is all about discovery and creation. Creating clay forms is forceful and, at the same time, subtle. It is magic and it is my art.
-- John Johnson
Artist's Background
- Studied in ceramic programs affiliated with Tyler School of Art and the Philadelphia College of Art
- Developed the leisure activity pottery program at West Virginia University
- Consulted with West Virginia elementary education teachers to develop pottery craft activities
- Taught pottery methods and techniques to individuals and classes ranging in age from 5 to 85
- Marketing my pottery throughout West Virginia
- Trained at Wild Acres Pottery Workshop in Ashville, North Carolina, with special attention to raku reduction firing