I use earthenware and mid-range stoneware clay to create functional ceramics. I seek to enliven my work by altering the thrown form and using a wide variety of decorative approaches on the surface. By enhancing the surface and form, I hope to elevate the experience of the user.
The functional form offers an incredible challenge and endless potential for creative exploration encompassing surface, form, and gesture. Through my work, I hope to create pieces that fill both a decorative and functional role.
John Gutteridge was born in Fort Nelson, British Columbia, Canada. He studied art and ceramics at the Emily Carr College of Art, Vancouver, and received a BFA from the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design, Halifax in 1984. He was an Artist in Residence in 1985 at Kent State University, Ohio, USA and at the Banff Centre of Fine Arts, Banff, Alberta from 1985 to1987. At the Banff Centre he was also the Ceramic Technician and Assistant Studio Head. In 1987, John was the Ceramic Technician at Haystack School of Crafts, Deer Isle, Maine.
Over the years, John has worked with many accomplished ceramic artists including Tam Irving, Walter Ostrom, John Gill and James Makins. Since 1987 he has operated a studio in Montreal, Quebec. John has exhibited widely in Canada and the USA and his work is in many public and private collections.
John’s major interests include the functional form, surface treatment, imagery and expression in both clay and wood.