No other volume has ever presented such a diverse and captivating collection of contemporary animal-themed ceramics. Juried by distinguished artist and educator Joe Bova, this magnificent gallery includes pieces from an international group of artists; the beautifully crafted works range from the representational to the abstract, from artful realism to provocative surrealism (including animal-human hybrids). Ann Marais image of a waterfowl painted onto a porcelain dish has a restrained, Asian quality. Sharkus painted and smoke-fired stoneware turtle could easily be mistaken for the living creature. Bova provides astute and illuminating commentary overall, with selected artists notes."

It’s an absolutely unequalled photographic gallery: no other book has ever presented such a varied, captivating collection of contemporary ceramics based on the human form. The works range from representational to abstract, from artful realism to provocative surrealism, and many of them come from leaders in the field such as Judy Fox, Kurt Weiser, and Andy Nasisse. Kay Yourist has produced female forms that are smooth, minimalist vessels with only the slightest hint of breasts and belly. The simple, rounded features of Diane Lublinski’s black-and-white figures possess a fun, clown-like whimsy. Michael A. Prather’s mournful ceramic portraits have frowning faces and pointed dunce-like heads in a muted color palette. Many of the ceramics come with detail images and illuminating artist’s commentary.

Publisher Description

For must of us, plates and chargers are primarily vessels for serving and holding food. In the eyes of the talented artists whose works are showcased in this collection, these objects are spectatular pieces to display on a table, sideboard or hutch.

The amazing beauty and variety in these 500 bowls is a testament to the imagination and inventiveness of today's ceramist. Every technique from across the globe is presented here.

A collection of fine functional and sculptural ceramic examples as chosen by top ceramicists; including analyses by artists, curators, collectors, and gallery owners.

An easy-to-follow beginner's workshop in creating the human form and self-supporting, standing animals in clay simple. This revised and updated edition includes 4 new projects.