Michael Simon

Michael Simon

Michael Simon is an American ceramic artist renowned for his distinctive functional pottery that seamlessly blends traditional techniques with contemporary sensibilities. Born in 1947 in New York, Simon's journey into ceramics began at the University of Minnesota, where he earned his BFA in 1970. He further honed his skills at the University of Georgia, receiving his MFA in 1973. Simon's work is characterized by its rustic, earthy qualities, often featuring wood-fired surfaces and subtle, natural glazes. His forms, while rooted in the utilitarian tradition of pottery, possess a quiet elegance and a keen attention to detail. Simon's pieces, ranging from bowls and plates to teapots and vases, are celebrated for their simplicity, functionality, and the evident mark of the maker's hand. Throughout his career, Simon has been a prominent figure in the American studio pottery movement, contributing not only through his own work but also through his teaching and mentorship. His pots have been exhibited widely, both nationally and internationally, and are held in numerous public and private collections. Simon's enduring influence on the field of ceramics is a testament to his dedication to the craft and his unwavering commitment to the creation of beautiful, functional objects that enrich daily life.

Michael Simon ceramic artist American potter functional pottery wood-fired natural glazes studio pottery movement simplicity elegance utilitarian tradition maker's mark

— Helen James