Jon began throwing pots in high school and received his BFA in ceramics from Ohio State University, where he developed an understanding of form and technique through studying the Japanese ceramics tradition. Soon after graduating from OSU, Jon established a production studio where he focused on making and selling functional work. Since 2008 Jon has maintained his studio in Katonah, New York, developing an original body of functional, decorative and sculptural ceramics using the techniques of throwing and altering, coil construction, innovative slab forming, and carving from solid clay. Jon has taught his techniques in many workshops, and is currently teaching hand building and advanced throwing classes at the Clay Art Center of PortChester, New York.

Statement:

My work is inspired by my observation of natural and man-made forms, including the design language seen in shells, bones, water carved rock, road cuts, sedimentary strata, arrowheads and early stone tools. I am fascinated with the way interactions of volume, line and surface, can build visual metaphors that invoke nature without directly quoting it. My pieces benefit from the discovery and acceptance of serendipitous “accidents” that occur as a natural bi-product of the building, finishing, and firing processes. I strive to reference the rich heritage of past traditions, while incorporating fresh juxtapositions from my own eclectic influences to forge a uniquely personal visual statement in my work.