Ryan Taylor, a local potter who graduated from Central College in Iowa, has recently started a private studio here in Hillsdale.
Taylor’s studio is at his home, about ten minutes from campus. It boasts a large variety of equipment and tools alongside a considerable collection of his own artwork.
Taylor tends to avoid bright and artificial neon glazes in his art, relying instead on more earthy colors, including colors such as muted tans, browns, oranges, reds, and blues. As to shape, the appearance of his pots share deliberate curves and bends, which preserve a natural, almost rustic feel. His work varies from tea cups and beer mugs, to large pots and vases too heavy for one person to lift.
In addition to making his own pots, Taylor said that he has plans to offer “private or small group lessons,” at a rate of 20 dollars per-hour in the near future. During these lessons, said Taylor, students will be able to make full use of his extensive studio in order to learn everything they desire about pottery, “regardless of prior knowledge.”
Students can learn a process called “mud-throwing,” the initial stage of pottery in which the clay is formed by hand with the aid of a large, fast-spinning wheel. Next the wet clay undergoes a “glazing” process, in which the potter chooses to bake the pieces either in an electric kiln or wood fire, depending on the desired aesthetic effect.
Electric kilns are typically used for smaller pieces such as mugs or bowls and produce a glossier finish.
Alternately, the wood fires tend to yield a more rustic, rough appeal. Taylor’s studio also sports a laser printer, which can imprint images on the pottery, anything from a catchphrase to a bird’s eye view of the Great Lakes.
According to the course catalogue, no class on pottery is offered at Hillsdale College, making Taylor’s studio the primary local option for any student who wishes to learn about pottery.
From hand spinning the raw clay, to baking in any number of different ovens, to the final aesthetic touches, Taylor is the “go-to” man in Hillsdale.
Coming to Hillsdale less than a year ago for its “laid back” tone and with the hope of escaping the burdensome taxes of the city, Taylor said he hopes to grow his business over time with the help of local artists and businesses.
“I want to build the art in the area,” he said. “I’d like to get some other artists to come here and give lectures, and maybe take on some apprentices. That’s a long-term goal.”
Taylor sells his work most Saturdays at Hillsdale’s Farmers’ market.
Ryan Taylor’s studio is located on 1531 South Bunn Road. For any questions or to schedule a lesson, call Taylor at (239) 227-9031 or reach him via email at rtpots@gmail.com.
