Wellman & Welsch Pottery 1998 Vase 14.5" H

Wellman & Welsch Pottery is a pottery studio located in Lutz, Florida About the artists and their work: Husband and wife team: Kimberly Wellman and Harry Welsch have been creating pottery together for 30 years. They describe their work as a joint effort, with one often starting a piece and the other finishing it. Background: Kimberly has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Michigan State, and Harry has a Bachelor of Science degree from Michigan State and a Master of Fine Arts from the Rochester Institute of Technology. Technique: They work with high-fired stoneware, fired in a reduction atmosphere in a gas kiln. They enjoy the physical nature of the pottery-making process. Style: Their work is characterized by a "painterly" glazing style, which is often seen as depicting landscapes or seascapes. They also incorporate bamboo, rattan, and cane handles, which are unique to their pieces and add a different tactile experience. Philosophy: They believe that a pot should be dynamic and reflect the movement of the potter's wheel. They aim to create functional, beautiful pieces that encourage everyday use and bring joy to their users. History: Wellman-Welsch Pottery began when Kimberly took a pottery lesson, and her passion and skill quickly outpaced her teacher's resources. Harry built a kiln for her and eventually joined her in making pottery. They sold their work at art fairs and festivals for 15 years before Harry pursued further formal training. They are founding members of the Florida West Coast Ceramics Society, which hosts the annual Tour de Clay event.