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Bryan Attaway
 Bryan Attaway has enjoyed the metamorphosis of moist clay becoming fired form for almost 40 years. He finds inspiration for his ceramic works in the long tradition of Southern stoneware potters. Bryan earned a BFA degree from the University of Georgia and taught high school art until retiring to his studio near Sylvania, Georgia to continue working in clay. He has established a national reputation for excellence in craftsmanship, originality, and a wry sense of humor. “Sometimes I think I’m channeling George Ohr, the long dead mad potter of Biloxi,” Bryan quips. “We seem to share a similar approach to clay and life.” Whether developing an interesting glaze or pursuing new forms on the potter’s wheel, Bryan enjoys the challenges of the ceramic medium. He comments, “Someone once observed that potters are either ‘mud men’ or ‘fire men’ but I’m a little of both. I enjoy the tactile quality of clay and I might just be a pyromaniac.” Bryan uses several clays, wood ashes, and sand to create both decorative and functional ceramic forms, firing them to 2400’ F in an oil-burning kiln he designed and built. The burning oil produces a long flame throughout the kiln, which causes unique flashing patterns on the surface of his pieces – no two firings are alike so anticipation runs high at kiln openings. Bryan hopes you agree the work was worth the wait. |