McKenzie Smith | Presenter at PC Functional Ceramics+Beyond

Read more about the Conference go here: http://ceramicartsdaily.org/potters-council/functional-ceramics-beyond/

MCKENZIE SMITH

Clay, Form, Slip, Glaze

For this demonstration McKenzie will focus on the making of wheel thrown functional ware exploring a variety of forms including thrown and altered pots. He will demonstrate a number of decorating techniques including the use of slips, wax and glaze.

Additional Information:

McKenzie Smith is a potter working in Florida. McKenzie worked as a Core Student at the Penland School of Crafts. He received his BFA from the University of South Florida and his MFA from the University of Florida. Residencies include the Archie Bray Foundation, Banff Center For The Arts, Baltimore Clayworks, and the University of Miami. Smith has exhibited widely and taught numerous workshops.

The pottery McKenzie produces is made in stoneware clay and he is influenced by folk traditions. His aim is to make functional pots that are lively and show the natural beauty of clay and fire. McKenzie is drawn to wood, salt/soda firing because of the rich effects these firings techniques have on his clay, slips and the glazes. The element of chance is very much a part of these atmospheric firing techniques and brings to play a deep connection between tending the fire and the work within. McKenzie is hoping that these elements in combination produce ware that has a warm essence and gives pleasure in use.