Lee Middleman

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.

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.

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).

Current Event:

OUT OF THE FIRE: CLAY & GLASS FROM ACGA – 2009

October 6-January 2

Tu – Fr 1-5pm, Sa 10-1pm

Open Studio Sale

During this Open Studio, I will be offering ceramic art I woodfired in China and Japan during 2009.  These pieces are distinctly different from the shapes and surfaces I make here in the US.  I will, of course, also be showing new textured work developed in Portola Valley.

Come visit and compare the styles.

Saturday & Sunday, December 5 & 6, 2009

10am to 5pm

16 Coalmine View

Portola Valley,

650.851.0295

For directions call or visit my website (www.LeeMiddleman.com).

Sorry, the studio is not wheelchair accessible.