Matt Kelleher
Marshall, North Carolina
An emerging artist with great promise, Matt Kelleher was raised in Iowa. His sufaces are magnificent; his are the kind of quiet pieces that resonate even after multiple uses.
Notes from Matt about production:
"Utilitarian objects are accessible and universal. Their forms are recognizable and their utility makes them inclusive...
"I develop my form by considering the requirements of utility. I challenge these assumptions by altering design to communicate gentle and self-confident shapes. I often explore specific design by playing with compositional elements. Volume, line, center of gravity, edges, spouts, handles, feet, or lids may all be altered in subtle degrees. I also fine-tune tactile elements such as weight distribution, balance, and thickness to explore the composition of a pot. I search for a poised form that captures the essence of utility.
"The soda-fired stoneware surface is created for contemplation. Moods are suggested with warmth, fluidity, and translucency. Atmospheres are veiled with fog and cool mist. The vessels are covered with slip. Pouring and layering, I respond intuitively to the qualities of liquid. Glaze is applied over the slip to achieve two different results. On some forms, I choose to pour glaze to mimic the gesture of the slip. On other forms, I arrange glaze with controlled marks to punctuate the composition. The firing atmosphere dampens the surface, the slip warms up and layering is revealed. The relationship between the form, the firing, and my hand is complete.
After completing a residency at the Penland School of Crafts in November of 2008, Kelleher moved to Marshall, NC to build a home and studio. Before coming to Penland, Matt was a sabbatical replacement at the Hartford Art School in Hartford, CT. Matt was also visiting Assistant Professor at Ohio University 2003-2004 and in the fall of 2004.
Matt is not new to the Artist in Residence experience. He was a resident at the Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park in Sigaraki, Japan in the summer of 2003 and a resident artist at the Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts from 1999-2001. Matt received an MFA from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1999, an MA in Printmaking from the University of Northern Iowa in 1997, and a BFA from the Kansas City Art Institute in 1995.
“My work is built on consideration. I combine a subtle balance of geometry in form, a comparison of symmetry and asymmetry in decoration, and a serene surface. Softly, the work asks for the viewers’ attention. Each piece is ready for a conversation and willing to be part of a greater surrounding.”
You can view more of Matt's work on our web sales site. For more information on Matt Kelleher's work, including what we might have in stock, please email or call us at 1-877-439-6554.
matt kelleher
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