Artist: Ian Connors

Ian Connors, NEW MEXICO

Artist Statement:

Curiosity drives my process. It is what I strive to convey in the work. Whether I am responding to wet clay in the studio or observing finished work, the experience of wonder motivates me. The materiality of clay fascinates me, with its ability to record the subtle variations that develop through working. Choosing such a material requires me to be equally as receptive throughout the process.

Handmade pots encourage their users to slow down and celebrate daily life. These objects often serve as a window to the temperament of the maker. They invite the user to relate to these objects on an interpersonal level. My goal is to support intimate connections between people and the simple things they find comfort in.

Education

2014 Bachelor of Fine Arts with a Concentration in Ceramics

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI

2012 Study Abroad-Peru: Arts and Culture of Peru

Professional Experience

2012-Present Owner and operator, Ian Connors Pottery, Taos, Nm

2015-2016 Apprentice-Mill Creek Pottery, Gresham, WI

2014- 2015 Artist in Residence-Taos Clay Studio, El Prado, NM

2011 - 2014 Ceramics Area Lead-UW-Milwaukee Studio Arts and Craft Centre, Milwaukee, WI

2009-2010 Art Studio Monitor, Colorado Mountain College, Steamboat Springs, CO

2009 Apprentice-Winchester Pottery, Persia, IA

Honors

2013 Elsa Ulbricht Scholarship, Department of Art and Design,

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI

Leadership Experience

2012- 2014 UW-Milwaukee Ceramic Arts Student Association

Treasurer-Responsibilities include grant writing and coordination with guest artists

2012 - 2014 UW-Milwaukee Peck School of The Arts, Black and Gold Committee

Responsible for allocation of student fees throughout the Peck School of The Arts

Exhibitions

2018 Woodfireworks II, Charlie Cummings Gallery, Gainesville, FL

2017 Strictly Functional Pottery National, Market House Craft Center, Lancaster, PA

2017 Working Pots II, James May Gallery, Algoma, WI

2017 Functional Relationships, New Harmony Contemporary, New Harmony, IN

2017 Twin Cups: 2017, MWSU - Potter Fine Arts Gallery, St. Joseph, MO

2016 Cup: The Intimate Object XII, Charlie Cummings Gallery, Gainesville, FL

2016 Strictly Functional Pottery National, Market House Craft Center, Lancaster, PA

2016 Last Call, Companion Gallery, Humbolt, TN

2015 Cup: The Intimate Object XI, Charlie Cummings Gallery, Gainesville, FL

2015 Ian Connors “Looking Up”- Residency Exit Show, Taos Clay, El Prado, NM

2015 Teabowl National 2015, Kansas City Clay Guild, Kansas City, MO

2015 Dirty South Mug Competition, River Oaks Arts Center, Alexandria, MS

2015 Taos Time-Taos Clay Employee Show, Taos Clay, El Prado, NM

2014 Human Heirlooms-Earthen Remains, Moxie Studio, Milwaukee, WI

2013 Crossing-Over Exhibition, UW-Milwaukee Union Gallery, Milwaukee, WI

2012 Featured Artist, UW-Milwaukee Studio Arts and Craft Centre, Milwaukee, WI

2011 Foundations Exhibition, UW-Milwaukee Union Gallery, Milwaukee, WI

Demonstrations/Lectures

2016 Visiting Artist Lecture and Demonstration, Finlandia University, Hancock, MI

2012 Visiting Artist Demonstration, Badger High School, Lake Geneva, WI

Publications

2019 Working Potter: Ian Connors, Ceramics Monthly, June/July/August 2019

2015 Emerging Artist, Musing About Mud, January 31st 2015

2015 Exposure, Ceramics Monthly, April 2015

Artist: Ian Connors

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