Scargo Pottery & Art Gallery

Artists

Kevin Nolan

Kevin Nolan, a permanent fixture at Scargo Pottery where he received the majority of his training, began his relationship with the clay medium while in high school in Fairfield, CT. It was during this time that he first became aware of Harry Holl’s Scargo Pottery through instructional videos on throwing technique which were used in his high school ceramics program. After graduating, Kevin remained in Connecticut and attended classes at Fairfield University. Those videos however, had an impact on Kevin, and it was not long before a swift chain of events swept him into Scargo’s path. In March of 1983 he attended a workshop given by Holl in Guilford, Connecticut; in April he made a trip to visit Scargo, and by June found himself living behind the studio and working in the shop as an apprentice. In Holl’s studio, learning and development progress through living with the craft rather that confining it to an academic environment. Tenacious practice on the wheel and attending drawing classes to train the eye and learn more about form provided Kevin with a solid foundation in technique and artistry. From this base his own sense of design and personal style could freely develop.

Kevin remained at Scargo ever since, and even became a family member through marriage. His capabilities on the wheel are far reaching, ranging from dinnerware and other functional items to works large in scale, including planters and standing pots and vases thrown in multiple pieces. A particular attention to the nuances of form characterizes Kevin’s work. Sculptural fountains and garden pieces are evidence of this aesthetic. Outdoor bird castles require attention not only to the thrown piece or hand-built slab, but to the dynamics and construction as well. This particular challenge continually engages Kevin, who often works with people on a consignment basis on specific architectural projects in clay.

Kevin’s presence at Scargo has also grown to include a vast working knowledge of the mechanics behind the studio’s kiln and any upkeep or repairs needed to the shop, which in a ceramics studio are not scarce. Changing and modifying glaze formulas are another area of self exploration. In addition to his own work, Kevin also works in collaboration with his sisters-in-law, Sarah, and Mary, both of whom decorate and carve pieces Kevin has thrown. Collaborative efforts introduce another element to his throwing technique, and provoke fresh ideas concerning shape and design.

Through the years Kevin has been asked to lead demonstrations and workshops for various groups and organizations, often working with children. In addition to his participation in many group shows at the studio, Kevin had his own solo show featured at Scargo in 1995. He is intrigued by the idea or working with clay on a more sculptural level, particularly that of a classic nature.

#2 large black sand porcelain vase w/ sea foam glaze 33x15

#5 Japanese pagoda stoneware w/ bronze green glaze 23x17

The images and information on this page can be obtained from Scargo Pottery