I consider myself to be creative and I love making things by hand but I am not a skilled craftsman by any stretch of the imagination. A skilled Craftsman is an individual that can turn a palette of paint into a beautiful oil painting or can carve a piece of wood into a magnificent piece of furniture.
One of my favorite forms for craftsmanship is handmade pottery and not long ago I discovered a very talented pottery craftsman that I wanted to share with you.
A Measure of Clay
Pottery crafted by Richard Shivers
I met Richard a couple of years ago while teaching design classes at a local home décor and gift store called Smith’s. I knew that Richard was creative based on the beautiful displays he creates for the store but it wasn’t until we were having a casual conversation that I discovered he is also a skilled potter and craftsman.
Richard’s pottery business is called A Measure of Clay and as he told me, ” A Measure of Clay is a blend between my musical profession and my interest in clay, a way for me to showcase my creativity.”
Working out of his home studio, the pieces Richard make feature wheel-thrown and slab clay pottery sculpted into functional wares. Each piece is made to be used for entertaining and serving and is designed to enrich the experience of friends and family gathering together around the table for a celebration or informal party.
Mother nature is one of Richards’ main sources of inspiration and you can see actual elements from nature used in many of his pieces. Larger leaves have been slumped into the slab of clay to produce platters or bowls for serving, or outdoor watering pools for frogs and butterflies. Smaller leaves, such as oak leaves have been used to create decorative items such as butter dishes, appetizer plates, spoon rest and soap dishes. Since every element in nature is unique and different so too are the pieces made by A Measure of Clay.
Richard’s leaf plates and platters are a favorite of mine. These would look great as part of a Thanksgiving table scape or used as a decorative accent on a side table.
The colors and texture of these pieces are so beautiful and a true reflection of nature.
Details are a signature on Richard’s pieces reflecting the workmanship and love he puts into each piece he makes.
Here’s a look at more of Richards work.
To learn more about A Measure of Clay and to see more of Richard’s craftsmanship, connect with him on facebook.
Made in America, Made by Hand!
Beautiful work!