Lou Pierozzi
LOU PIEROZZI
As a ceramic artist, my work has evolved across many styles over the years, but I am best known for two distinct series: the 'Metal Series' and the 'Aqua Series.' Each collection reflects a unique creative vision—one inspired by the industrial past, the other by the natural world.
The 'Metal Series' focuses on functional ceramic art that transcends mere utility. My vessels, though functional, evoke a sense of history by drawing from the Industrial Revolution—a time when machines like trains, boilers, steamships, and iron-clad warships first became part of everyday life. I am particularly captivated by the visual language of industrial machinery: smokestacks, rivets, gears, and steel plates. Through my work, I aim to capture the heavy, mechanical aesthetics of that era while also imbuing each piece with a sense of stylized originality. I want my viewers to feel a connection to that pivotal moment in history, yet also appreciate the artistic interpretation that makes each piece unique.
The process for creating these industrially inspired vessels is complex and highly personal. I begin by throwing the main body of the piece on the potter’s wheel, altering its shape to suit the desired form. Then, I craft the extruding parts—cutting, reshaping, and assembling them to mimic the components of industrial machinery.
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Every rivet is individually hand-sculpted and meticulously placed, and I carve lines into the surface to replicate metal plating. Once the piece is fully assembled and bisque-fired, I apply a custom glaze and fire it to 2,383 degrees Fahrenheit. The result is a vessel that is both functional and sculptural, reflecting the weight and texture of the industrial age while offering a contemporary aesthetic.
In contrast, the 'Aqua Series' draws inspiration from the vibrant colors and fluidity of water. Influenced by the turquoise seas of the Caribbean, the warmth of summer and spring, and the lively hues of fruits like lemon and lime, this series celebrates organic patterns and bright, dynamic textures. The porcelain pieces are crafted on the potter’s wheel, with surfaces textured using porcelain slip. I formulate all my own glazes to capture the perfect color palette, ensuring each piece strikes a harmonious balance between form and function. The result is a collection of art that feels both refreshing and alive, reflecting the beauty of nature.
In addition to my work in the studio, I am deeply passionate about creating functional pottery that enriches everyday life. There’s a profound joy in knowing that a handcrafted mug I’ve made becomes part of someone’s daily ritual—like their morning coffee—connecting the maker and user through a shared appreciation of simple beauty. Wheel-thrown pottery, for me, is the perfect marriage of artistry and practicality, allowing each piece to become a functional work of art that elevates ordinary moments.
I hold an M.F.A. in Ceramics from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale (2001) and a B.F.A. from DePaul University (1997). Currently, I serve as the Chair of Art and Design and Distinguished Professor of Art at Oakton College, where I have taught since 2001. My work has been featured in numerous publications, including Ceramics Monthly, Ceramics Art and Perception, Clay Times, and Clay Art China. My artwork has been exhibited in various galleries and museums, such as The American Museum of Ceramic Art in Pomona, CA; Lancaster Museum of Art in Lancaster, PA; Sherryl Terrell Gallery in Cincinnati, OH; Lill Street in Chicago, IL; and Hyart Gallery in Madison, WI.