Crossing Borders Studio Tour 2013 Artist Dick Cooter

Dick Cooter

Mind is shapely. Art is shapely. - Jack Kerouac

I follow the tradition in which making a pot is a collaboration among clay, fire, potter and user. The potter seeks the tension among them so that each element has its place, and none dominates for too long. - Dick Cooter

My pots are fired in a 125-cubic-foot wood-burning kiln inspired by traditional Korean kilns. The kiln must be stoked with wood every 10 minutes for 36 hours until 2400 degrees Fahrenheit is reached. Pots emerge from this river of fire with a richness of surface that can't be duplicated by modern means. The pots are sturdy, simple and reflect the processes of making them. Intended for daily use, such as storage, serving, food preparation, and flower display, the pots are free of toxic materials and are dishwasher and microwave safe.

I hope my work brings pleasure and joy to the rituals of daily life. My studio is open year round and is located five miles northeast of Two Harbors, Minnesota.

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