Ochoko

Materials: Stoneware Dimensions: 1" H x 3.25" D Origin: Minnesota, United States

Samuel Johnson Having started his studies in the United States and continued his work in Copenhagen and Japan, Samuel Johnson is an artist well-traveled. With various cultural influences, Samuel's work is robust, powerful, and seemingly undisturbed by modern motivation. It is hard to come across such complex work within a single medium, but Johnson's dark, varied wood-fired surfaces hold an almost ancient presence. After throwing symmetrical forms, he scrapes and inlays them into slight disorder before exposing them to the extreme heat of the kiln. Within the natural variations of texture, wonderful scenes of nature emerge and dissolve — mountains and hills, lakes and streams, all existing within the mysterious surface of his work. Now a Professor of Art and the Chair of the Art Department at the College of St. Benedict and St. John’s University, Johnson continues to push the boundaries of functional and sculptural art, reminding us that the possibilities of each medium (pottery, drawing, and painting) and their function in daily life are as deep and limitless as our imaginations.

Ceramic pieces can be unglazed, partially glazed, or fully glazed. Each application requires a slightly different approach to caring for the piece. While most ceramics are dishwasher-safe, we recommend handwashing to maximize the piece's longevity. It is best to wash after each use. Lukewarm water and a mild detergent will do, but for a hardier stain, you can use gentle cleansing products like Bon Ami. For woodfired work, if you regularly clean your piece with harsh soaps or in the dishwasher, it might start to look visibly dry. In this case, apply a small amount of mineral oil to your hands and rub the surface of the piece to regain its luster. The porosity of unglazed clay bodies can retain large amounts of moisture and harbor bacteria. Avoid soaking the piece in water for extended periods, as this can lead to discoloration, odor, and mold growth. Most hand-thrown ceramic wares are left with an unglazed foot. If rough to the touch, use 220-grit sandpaper to polish until smooth. Refrain from sliding the piece across surfaces to help avoid scratches on furniture. Wipe the piece with a soft cloth after washing, and dry on a dish rack overnight before storing.