The rich and multifaceted history of ceramics takes center stage in the compelling compilation, Contemporary Black American Ceramic Artists, a comprehensive book published by Schiffer Craft. Delving into the practices of 38 Black American artists, the publication illuminates the diverse and profound contributions of these individuals to the realms of history, politics, and culture. From the pioneering efforts of earlier generations such as Augusta Savage, who skillfully translated the human experience into figurative clay forms, to the contemporary works of Morel Doucet, Chotsani Elaine Dean, and Danielle Carelock, the book pays homage to the enduring legacy of Black ceramicists throughout history. Additionally, the recognition of the nearly 200 enslaved ceramicists, including the prolific Dave the Potter, serves as a poignant reminder of the often-overlooked contributions of marginalized communities in shaping the trajectory of the medium. As the book stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of Black ceramicists across different eras, it fosters a deeper understanding of the profound impact of ceramics as a medium for cultural expression and social commentary.
Morel Doucet, “Skin Congregate on the Eve of Every Mountain” (2019), slip-cast porcelain with decals. Photo by David Gary Lloyd, courtesy of the artist and Galerie Myrtis
Ceramics is both versatile and enduring, allowing for myriad aesthetic sensibilities, degrees of functionality, and the ability to last lifetimes. A new book published by Schiffer Craft gathers the practices of 38 Black Americans who have harnessed the broad potential of clay as they explore various aspects of history, politics, craft, and culture.
Ranging from the colonial East Coast and the Harlem Renaissance to the current century, Contemporary Black American Ceramic Artists compiles interviews, photos, and short essays into an expansive, diverse survey. In addition to artists working today like Morel Doucet (previously), Chotsani Elaine Dean, and Danielle Carelock, the book also recounts earlier generations who used the medium as a catalyst for their creative practices. Augusta Savage (1892-1962), for example, is known for translating the humanity of her subjects into figurative clay forms. She also went on to found the Savage Studio for Arts and Crafts in 1930s New York and helped secure funding for her students as part of the Works Progress Administration.
The book also recognizes the contributions of nearly 200 ceramicists who were enslaved and working in commercial potteries in Edgefield, South Carolina. Among those is Dave the Potter, who is thought to have produced more than 100,000 stoneware vessels throughout his lifetime.
Contemporary Black American Ceramic Artists, written by Donald A. Clark and Chotsani Elaine Dean, is currently available for pre-order on Bookshop.
Morel Doucet. Image © David Gary Lloyd
Paul S. Briggs, “Double Cuttle” (2011), stoneware, glaze, 12 inches. Photo courtesy of the artist
Chotsani Elaine Dean, “Memory Spoon: ‘Minding my garden, as they did with their gardens’” (2021), ceramic, porcelain, paper clay, silica sand, black sand, resin embedded with dried flowers grown in the artist’s garden, 13.5 × 4.5 × 4.25 inches. Photo courtesy of Chotsani Elaine Dean
Danielle Carelock, “Foliage Mugs,” earthenware, hand-painted luster overglaze, 2 × 4 inches. Photo courtesy of Saltstone Ceramics
Keith Wallace Smith, “Dream Dancer” (2009), porcelain, terra-cotta, and rope, 21 × 13 × 17 inches. Photo courtesy of the artist
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The Comprehensive Exploration of Contemporary Black American Ceramic Artists, a significant publication by Schiffer Craft, illuminates the profound contributions of 38 Black American artists who have harnessed the rich potential of ceramics as a medium for cultural expression and social commentary. From the historical significance of figures like Augusta Savage, whose figurative clay forms conveyed the essence of humanity, to the contemporary works of Morel Doucet, Chotsani Elaine Dean, and Danielle Carelock, the book traces the trajectory of Black ceramicists’ enduring creativity across different eras. Moreover, the acknowledgment of the contributions of enslaved ceramicists, including the renowned Dave the Potter, serves as a poignant reminder of the often-unrecognized impact of marginalized communities on the evolution of the medium. Through a combination of insightful interviews, captivating imagery, and poignant essays, the book offers a profound and multifaceted survey, fostering a deeper understanding of the integral role of ceramics in shaping the narratives of history, politics, and culture within the Black American artistic tradition.