Jane Bess Pottery

Artist Statement

Working as a fulltime professional potter has created an inner harmony in my life.  There is a sense of peace and purpose that extends beyond the walls of my studio.  As an artist, I have the unique opportunity of not only producing quality stoneware pottery for people’s homes and daily use, but also I am inspiring young children’s creative spirits, and encouraging others to pursue their own creative passion.  I continue to share with others my enthusiasm and knowledge of being both an artist and an entrepreneur.   I am often asked, “What is my inspiration,” and the answer is always the same; it is nature, and more specifically water.  The sheer natural splendor of the earth itself inspires my creative energy. The way the morning light glistens along the ocean waters, the way the heavenly sunsets drift over a peaceful pasture or freshly cut field; or the way the brilliant blue sky shines down over a field of golden sunflowers.  It is the beauty of the American landscape that stimulates my imagination and fuels my creative spirit.    

Artist Achievements, Accomplishments and Awards

Education

1983                  SC Governor's School for the Arts, Founding Alumni class, Visual Arts

1982 - 1985        Wando High School, Mt. Pleasant, SC, honors graduate

1985 - 1989        University of Georgia, Athens, GA, B.F.A. Interior Design & Fine Art

1990                  Atlanta College of Art, Atlanta, GA - Gallery Management CEU program

Workshops

2002-2004          Southern Moon Pottery, Aiken, SC, Pottery 101 and Advanced pottery classes

2003                  John C. Campbell Folk School, Brasstown, NC                         

Exhibitions

July 2003            Southern Moon Pottery, Student Exhibition, received 3 Honorable Mentions

Dec 2003            Southern Moon Pottery, Advanced Student Exhibition

                          Piedmont Tech, Center for Creative Industries, Grand Opening Celebration

Oct 2008-2009     Carolina-Carribean "The Connection" state wide traveling art show, sponsored by the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor and Barbados        

Media Coverage           

Mar 2007           ETV Road Show, Edgefield County.  Featured artist segment filmed directly in my

                          shop and studio.                      

Associations 

2005                  Potters' Council of the American Ceramic Society

2006-Present      Edgefield Regional Arts, Board Member 2007 & 2008 and vice president 2008

2006-Present      Edgefield Community Development Association, marketing committee