Daniel’s life with clay began nearly 50 years ago, marked by a journey of discovery and delightful surprises.
After earning his BFA, he took a 20-year hiatus from ceramics. He was later re-inspired by vintage architectural pottery and traditional Japanese techniques. As his wife Pat gently suggested he stop cluttering the house with large pots, Daniel began producing his favorite forms in miniature instead.
Raku firing quickly became a favorite method, offering unorthodox and unpredictable finishes. Some pieces merge modern silhouettes with surfaces that appear a thousand years old. Others feature Arts and Crafts-inspired glazes reminiscent of early 20th-century West Coast potteries or 1960s Italian art ceramics.
Stacking came naturally—it created visual rhythm and forms greater than the sum of their parts. Shadow play and lighting evolved organically.
Alternate materials such as concrete, natural ocean coral, and aluminum bases and shades have led to irresistible combinations and new lighting possibilities. Wall sconces, ceiling fixtures, floor, and table lamps—especially task lighting—became ripe for reinterpretation.
It took Daniel 25 years to finally begin producing traditional, functional tableware—but when he did, the results were worth the wait.
