I utilize many techniques in the process of creating my work, and I use a wide range of clays, from gritty, iron-rich stoneware to blended porcelain. I formulate and mix my own glazes (all lead-free) and apply them by brushing, pouring, dipping and spraying. The firing, which gives each piece strength and permanent color, is done in electric, propane, or wood-fired kilns - all with different effects on the finished products.

Where do I “get” my ideas? Inspiration comes from my experiences and adventures — a blend of indigenous, ancient and modern, east and west; Samurai, Viking, Buccaneer; travels in forest and desert, voyages on oceans, rivers, and tropical seas; observations and conversations with animals, artisans, mountain men, and pirates. Simply living here, raising pack goats, watching the stars. I occasionally appear in movies and local commercials, as a character, player, voice, or “background”. It’s all good, it’s all part of that really big wheel (yep, the wheel of life).

My current work includes “Kanji” Lanterns incised with Asian calligraphy; Pirate Pots - black utilitarian pots featuring the jolly bones; “Ronin” lidded jars; Large-scale platters and garden basins; Viking Vessels and Boats; Jugs and sake sets; Ikebana containers and Blossom Bowls; Vases, tiles and reliquaries featuring incised and sculpted wildlife imagery.

As you can see, the Lost Mountain website offers different sections to browse, organized by type of work, personal adventures and links. Simply click on the word or image to transport there, use the “back” arrow or click on another image to move about, away from, or further within a category. Some of my work is available for purchase on a (relatively) regular and consistent basis, and can be purchased via PayPal or with a simple e-mail request.  Keep in mind, though, that even a “set” or group of work will have differences due to the completely hand-made nature of this craft. Many of the larger pieces are truly “one-of-a-kind”, blessed with a particular combination of  glaze chemistry, firing process, a dash of magic, or all of the above - singular pieces that can never be “duplicated”.  Images on my website give you an idea of the scope of my work, the color palette I use, and the type of philosophy or influence that may have generated its creation. 

Please feel free to write if you would like to discuss custom work, or if you see a piece that may be sold and you would like me to create a similar piece. Sometimes my clay bodies, glaze materials, or directions change, so I may not be able (or inclined!) to repeat a particular form or color. However, a new approach to an old idea often leads to even better work, so I am always willing to listen.

Thanks for visiting Lost Mountain Clayworks. Enjoy the ‘virtual’ tour, and I hope we can meet at a show, online, or by appointment at the studio itself.

Time Capsule

 2007 - Currently designing and producing clayworks for galleries, fairs, and special exhibits. Board Member, Art In The Pearl Fine Arts and Crafts Festival (www.artinthepearl.com) Full-time Outreach and Events Coordinator for the Clackamas REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.)
(http://rei.com/stores/102) 

1991 - Established Lost Mountain Studio in rural Clackamas County.

1983 - Graduated from Oregon Health Sciences University Advanced Paramedic Training Program. Employed as Paramedic, EMT and Trauma Life-Support Instructor. 9-1-1 Emergency Medical Dispatch Coordinator in Portland Metropolitan area.

1981 - Sold “The Wheel”, moved from Florida to Oregon.

1974 - Founded and operated “The Wheel” Studio/Gallery - Sanibel Island, Florida. Exhibited in galleries, marketed at craft fairs, taught workshops, and completed numerous commissions regionally and nationally: dinnerware settings, tile projects, and fountains for homes, restaurants, hotels, and private businesses.

1972 - Graduated from Princeton University, Department of Art & Archaeology, Princeton, New Jersey. Associated study in Ceramic Arts with Toshiko Takaezu. Graduation thesis: Ceramic Art exhibit, first of its kind at Princeton.

1950 - Born in Mineola, New York / Raised in Riverside, Connecticut.

“I find myself on Lost Mountain - this beautiful rural environment enables quiet contemplation or boisterous exuberance. Having a studio here is truly a privilege.”