Ted Neal
Indiana
Porcelain, wood-fired and reduction-cooled, cone 10
Functional
6" w x 5" l x 7.25" h
About the Teapot
While no glazes have been applied to the surfaces, I do utilize high iron slips and clays on the bisque surfaces. Each is then fired in a train style wood kiln in a process called reduction cooling. This process creates natural ash glazes common to most wood fired forms but also promotes the dark metallic surfaces by a controlled reduction of oxides (primarily iron) in the cooling cycle.
About the Artist
Born and raised in rural upstate New York, Ted has received degrees from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (MFA 1998), Utah State University (BFA 1995), and Brigham Young University Idaho (AAS 1991). His work has been featured in numerous exhibitions including: Earth Matters NCECA 2010 Invitational in Philadelphia, PA, Strictly Functional Pottery National in East Petersburg PA, Forms and Shapes: The Useful Teapot at AKAR Gallery in Iowa City, IA, and NCECA Clay National in Columbus, OH.
Ted is currently a studio artist, kiln builder, and Professor of Ceramics in the School of Art at Ball State University in Muncie Indiana.
Artist Statement
In all my work one constant is my use of the vessel as a framework upon which to hang concepts of utility and self-expression. Specifically, my utilitarian work is most satisfactory when a single object occupies space as both a useful object and one that also embodies loftier ideas such as beauty, connectedness and shared kinesthetic experiences.
I explore consumption and the use of natural resources as themes in my work. I choose the ceramic vessel to marry industrial form and surfaces with my thoughts about our consumer culture. I enjoy the interplay of roles between the utilitarian form as an object for eating and that of a conceptual vehicle for expression about global consumption. The objects serve as subtle reminders of the cost of the things that we use.
*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.
About National Teapot Show XIII
Cedar Creek Gallery's National Teapot Show XIII is an invitational event featuring teapots crafted by artists from across North America. More than 200 hand-crafted teapots created using a broad range of materials - including pottery, glass, wood, fiber, and mixed media.
Teapots in the show come in all shapes and sizes! Some are functional - just right for your daily cup of tea, while others are created as sculptural teapots.
Every teapot in the show is available for purchase.
All teapots will remain on display (including those already sold), both online and in the gallery, through September 14, 2026.