KERRY GONZALEZ

Kerry Gonzalez was born in Oakland, California in 1949.  He studied ceramics and glass blowing at Florida Atlantic University, University of South Florida, Pilchuck School, and the California College of Arts and Crafts.

Mr. Gonzalez has worked in Raku exclusively since 1975. Copper matte Raku is very temperamental and fraught with variables with consistent results often elusive. There are two edges to this in that one never knows the outcome of the tedious, difficult work and time spent. However, the artist also has a one of a kind piece of pottery when successful, like none other.

I have already alluded to ‘copper’ glaze, which is now the focus of Mr. Gonzalez' work. To make a long process short, the process starts by applying a copper glaze to the piece, firing the pot to 1900º F, removing the pot red hot, placing it into a carbon material. The combustion causes a reaction with the glaze creating the multicolor effect. Almost all of his pots are produced through this process. These are extremely arresting pieces at first glance, and they are very dominant in their environment. They need a considerable amount of space.

Mr. Gonzalez produces these colorful pots in a variety of forms. Most of them are classical in nature: the early forms have ‘over the top’ skins. It would be difficult to find pottery any more colorful.

The one piece featured in this gallery is a very early one. It is a sphere that has gone through the Raku process but has been covered with a typical ‘shiny’ glaze. The result of the firing is one that causes a considerable ‘crackling’ effect that covers the entire pot. The color remains a consistent white. This is a world apart from the work that he is producing now.

Mr. Gonzalez is very prolific and highly successful with his present work, and I think it a rare opportunity to own one of his early pieces. It is equally beautiful in an entirely different manner. As his work continues its success, I think this vintage piece is a valuable piece to own, representing his earlier work. I have not found other pieces of this period.