Mud: Handmade in the Midwest

March 16 – May 31, 2014

Randy Johnston
Squared Sushi Platter
13 x 13 x 2 inches
Photography: Jon Bolton

Organized by the Racine Art Museum Store, this exhibition showcases a selection of works created by ceramists who reside in the upper Midwest region. Handmade in the Midwest brings together a wide array of work with an emphasis on functional works as well as products made by studio potters from two generations. All works on display will be for sale.

The pieces range from the small-scale hand-carved porcelains of Sandra Byers to the utilitarian dinnerware and serving pieces of Paul Eshelman. A special grouping of vintage works created by John Glick from the 1970s through the present are a particular focal point of this display. In addition, two deceased artists, Margaret Ponce Israel and Toshiko Takaezu—with whom the Racine Art Museum has had close relationships over the years—will be represented by functional and sculptural pieces. Works by Glick, Johnston, and Oestreich are also featured in current exhibitions devoted to selections of ceramics from RAM’s permanent collection in the museum’s galleries. Takaezu’s masterwork, The Star Series, is also included in these shows.

Artists in the Exhibition

Robert Briscoe (MN), Sandra Byers (WI), Win Byers (WI), Karl Borgeson (WI), Paul Dresang (IL), Paul Eshelman (IL), John Glick (MI), Michael Gross (WI), Rick Hintze (WI), Randy Johnston (WI), Alex Mandli (WI), Jeff Noska (WI), and Jeff Oestreich (MN). Special works by the late Toshiko Takaezu (NJ), and Margaret Ponce Israel (NY)