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Donald Fraser was in his mid twenties when he first discovered
clay. A class at Mesa College was his introduction to ceramics.
It’s been about twenty years now, of working with clay, and it’s still as
exciting as that first class for him. He was committed right from the
start and it wasn’t long before he was making beautiful objects, some of which
would be used to serve food.
Making vessels and vessel forms on the potters’ wheel
is Don’s primary interest, but he works clay in a variety of other ways
too. As he says, I’ve never been able to settle into one dominant
style.” He works with both earthenware and high fire clays (stoneware
and porcelain), and fires mostly in a natural gas kiln. “Working with
this magic stuff called clay, I find that I’m constantly engaged in new
challenges, new shapes.”
Don’s inspiration comes from everywhere. Nature
may be the strongest inspiration in the shapes of rock or seedpods, plants
and animals (both on land and underwater). The human body is also
an influence. Many shapes made on the potters’ wheel are said to have
a foot, a neck, shoulders, a body, etc. It’s not surprising then that
some pots really have a presence. Tradition is also a heavy influence.
He finds many pieces of ancient pottery to be powerful works. The
experience of a great pot can be most satisfying, and can somehow enrich
one’s life. “I hope as I try to make strong works, which please me,
that others will find enrichment in them also, I hope they satisfy.”
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