monte young

The intention of my pottery is to create well-made traditional forms for daily use which feel good in the user's hands.  I enjoy rich earthy tones achieved through the use of minimal slips and glazes fired in my cross draft wood kiln.

I typically fire my 65 cubic foot kiln 3 times per year.  The kiln design has an internal firebox that offers flashing effects on pots closest to the firebox and ash-kissed glaze ware in the back, which I particularly love.

My work cycle starts two weeks after a firing is completed.  I spend 4 - 6 weeks making pots on the wheel and work tables.  After bisque firing them, I move to glazing and slipping, which is then followed by the final firing.

In my work cycle, I try not to build up too many raw pots as I use each firing as a learning tool for continuous improvement on the next cycle of work, helping me to grow as an artist.

I love the Shoji Hamada quote, "Technique and skills must be absorbed, wrapped up, and put away to become an integral part of yourself that will be revealed in your work without thought."