WARREN MCKENZIE

          Warren McKenzie is one of America’s finest potters of the school of utilitarian design and function. He produces and shares philosophies with artists like the former Byron Temple and in a similar way, Karen Karnes. Considered an American pioneer of studio pottery, McKenzie was also an important teacher, as he is today.

          In 1949, McKenzie went to Britain to study with the father of studio pottery, Bernard Leach, who had a great influence on his philosophy towards ceramics. While abroad, he was also greatly influenced by Shoji Hamada and Soetsu Yanagi’s Mingei philosophy. It cannot be emphasized enough how important this direct lineage to Bernard Leach was. Leach was the chief potter of his time, and set the tone, style, methods and philosophy for students from all over the world.

          As influenced by Leach, McKenzie believes that pottery should be utilitarian and not art-oriented. Following that maxim, he has tried to keep his prices low. But, as with other successful potters of this school, the intrinsic value of each piece escalates with the recognition of artistry in simplicity, whether it be utilitarian or not. There are many ‘utilitarian’ potters that strive for this credo, but their intrinsic artistry wins out and the pieces become valuable examples of this school of design, which in itself becomes valuable. His is one of the ‘best of the best’.

          His traditional, wheel-thrown stoneware vessels are simply glazed and reduction fired, following the oriental aesthetic. His wife Alix decorated his pots until she passed away in 1962.

          McKenzie taught at the University of Minnesota from 1952 and is still there now. He is now Professor Emeritus. He continues to create works at his studio in Stillwater, Minnesota. Similar to Hamada, McKenzie, who celebrated his 80^th birthday in February of 2004, no longer signs his pots.

          McKenzie is considered one of the most important figures of our century in the pottery world. He ‘fathered’ many important pupils who have carried on in his shadow. He is a prize to have in any Gallery.