Potters Favorite Pots: Lisa Orr features a favorite pot by Sandra Johnstone

One of Arrowmont’s most engaging traditions at the Utilitarian Clay Symposium is the presenters panel, “Potters Favorite Pots.” It’s an opportunity for participants to learn about the functional objects that inspire each presenter – whether it’s process, form, or personal connection with the maker.

In a new video series, Arrowmont asks previous presenters to share anew a favorite piece from their collections with our full creative community.

Lisa Orr was a Utilitarian Clay III Symposium Presenter.  She is a professional potter and has been a student of ceramics for almost 40 years. After completing her MFA in 1992 at the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University, Lisa received a Fulbright and an MAAA/NEA grant to continue her studies. Her work is shown in numerous public and private collections including the Fine Arts Museum of San Francisco, and the permanent collection of WOCEF in Korea. Lisa currently teaches, lectures and shows nationally and internationally.

Lisa presents a favorite piece by Sandra Johnstone.

Sandra Johnstone (1936 – 1991) is known for her large wheel thrown stoneware pots. Her wares were often deeply incised both on interior and exterior surfaces. Sandra Johnstone was one of the first registered graduate students studying with Peter Voulkos at University of California Berkeley in the Department of Decorative Arts.  In addition to Voulkos, Johnstone studied with Paul Soldner. In the early 1980s Johnstone built a salt kiln. She was a life-long studio potter and taught at Napa Valley College from 1983 – 1990.

Click here to see Lisa Orr’s “Potters Favorite Pot” video, or visit https://youtu.be/uU_zrYeZkaQ.