williambaker's Profile

Bio

A studio potter working way up in the mountains of Western North Carolina for the past several years. Here I spend most of my time creating my pottery one piece at a time on the wheel and firing my wood burning kiln.

Artist Statement:

As a ceramic artist I explore the potter’s wheel and the use of atmospheric firing methods as my primary tools. The dynamic interaction between the malleable, versatile clay and the steady motion of the wheel first enthralled me, and continues to challenge and humble me everyday. It is this interaction that inspires the forms I create, and which influences the movements of my hands as they meet the clay. Each piece is a record of the union of these forces.

My current work reflects my continuing attempt to find a balance between the requirements of function, and the subtle details which give a form the strength to stand alone and still remain receptive to the marks of the fire. I choose to create mostly functional work because I enjoy the intimacy with which these pieces can be experienced. For me, knowing that a piece of my pottery will be filled with nourishment and held closely on a daily basis only adds to the beauty of that piece and to the attention to detail it deserves.

As each piece takes form between my hands one thousand thoughts fill my head; of strong form, proper function, and firing surface. I am creating not just a bowl or cup or jar, but a pot with all the possible expressions of the human personality. I form the structure, the bones, of the pot thinking ahead toward the firing chamber. Building on this structure I refine the surface until the taut skin reveals the intentional elements of the seemingly simple form. And then I send the pot into the fire, standing naked and unadorned, with only its strength to protect it and its softness to accept the flames which wrap around it.

Please visit my website for information about me and my work, http://www.williambakerpottery.com

SHIPPING AND RETURN POLICY

All work viewed on Etsy is currently available and will ship via UPS or USPS within 1-3 days of receiving payment. All shipping prices for destinations within the continental U.S., international orders please contact me and I will gladly give you an estimate for shipping.

RETURNS

I strive to present pottery which displays the highest level of craftsmanship. Due to the firing process, each piece is absolutely unique and I present images of the actual piece which is for sale. Should you be unhappy with your purchase, you may return it for a refund within three (3) days of receiving the item, at your cost of shipping. I will refund your purchase price minus the cost of shipping the item. Please contact me before returning an item.

Thanks for your interest!

William Baker

Male, Born on February 6

Favorite Materials

clay, fire