In my ceramic forms, I seek to create shapes that reflect the curves
found in Nature and patterns and textures that emphasize the organic
interplay between order and randomness.
Highly Textured
The tactile feel and visual look of surface textures are essential to my
pieces. My recent work is focused on creating textures by deeply
impressing patterns into thrown cylinders without distorting the overall
shape. The cylinder is then expanded from only the inside to create the
final form. This technique allows the pattern to evolve as the clay
twists and expands. As the pattern adjusts to the shape and function
of the vessel, it becomes reflective of Nature’s adaptation to the form -
as the size and shape of a reptile’s scales gradually vary along its body
Hand Built Stoneware
For high-fire pieces, the glazing process enhances the natural aesthetic
of the order and randomness. Thinly glazed surfaces highlight the
macropatterns and reveal the stoneware clay’s micro-texture created
during the expansion process.
Wood Fire:
This body of work is created and fired in wood kilns in Japan, Korea,
and China. It is for exhibition and sale in these countries only.
Simple textures and surfaces are used to compliment the fire effects.
Wood Fired
“For wood fired pieces, the firing process enhances the
natural aesthetic of the order and randomness.”
Wood Fired
My goal is to pursue the interplay of shape, surface texture, ordered
patterns, and random effects so that work is created that intrigues
the eye and demands to be touched.
Highly Textured
Lee’s work is proudly displayed in our Ceramic Art Gallery!
Website: www.LeeMiddleman.com
E-Mail: Lee@LeeMiddleman.com
Click here for the Galleries displaying Lee’s work
Lee is a member of
The Association of Clay and Glass Artists of California, (ACGA).
Lee Middleman
Pottery & Ceramic Art
In Lee’s signature work, he throws classic forms and uses surface textures to give them energy and vitality resulting in art that is both pleasing and alive. “I seek to create patterns and textures that emphasize the organic interplay between order and randomness found in Nature.” Lee uses multiple glazes to intensify the dynamic tension in his surfaces. Although functional, his work is often prized as decorative.
Lee has been recognized by many national juried competitions in the United States including “Feats of Clay,” “Strictly Functional Pottery National,” “California Clay Competition,” and “Ink & Clay.” In 2003, he was accepted into the World Ceramic Competition, World Biennale in Icheon, Korea. Museums in Greece, China, Korea and Japan have collected his work. He combines his ceramic career with his strong interest in Asian cultures by accepting invitations to several artist-in-residencies or ceramic woodfire festivals in Asia each year.
His art has also been reviewed in many publications, including Ceramics Monthly as well as international magazines and books. Lee has been interviewed on television in the United States and Japan.
Lee is Past-President of the Association of Clay and Glass Artists. He is a founding member and the North American chairman of the International Ceramic Artists Association. He holds a PhD in Physics from Stanford University and BA in Physics from Johns Hopkins University.
Portola Valley, California, USA