Shane Porter
Colorado

Ceramic
Functional
10"w x 6"l x 8"h 

About the Artist
As for me, sometime around 2001, I found myself in need of a hobby, so I enrolled in a community center pottery program. I quickly fell in love with the clay, read up, and learned as much as I could about it, took as many workshops as I could, and even started working for a potter in exchange for studio space. As such, I have put myself through a somewhat makeshift modern equivalent of an apprenticeship. Any claims to being self-taught, however, would be unfair to the many and varied people and resources from whom I have acquired my knowledge.
Around 2010, my wife and I bought our house where I built my studio and began full time pursuit of that elusive beauty. With my new home studio, my hands were rarely idle. One day, with a small wad of clay, a bird emerged. It amused me. I put it on a bowl. It made people smile. I made more, I found myself searching for new forms to put birdies on.
The birds have taken over. They still amuse me.

Artist Statement
Art is not a luxury. Art is as essential to life as dawn is to the day. True, many go about their lives never waking to take notice. But for those who do, there is no greater pleasure than to stop to gaze upon beauty. Wherever, and in whatever form, they may find it.
My process is highly influenced by a background in wood and metal working. I often create a wood or metallic look in my work which is an homage to this background. I also enjoy additions of wood and metal elements to complete the work. My early aesthetic influences would have to be based in my interest in history and archaeology. A viewer will easily notice traditional forms and decorations of many different cultures, ancient and modern, in my work.

*Teapots that are purchased will remain on display in the gallery for the duration of the exhibition, through September 14, 2026.
After the show closes, teapots will be carefully packed and shipped by September 28, or they may be picked up at the gallery.