Jim Danisch has been making exceptional ceramics since 1963. Often experimental, he has explored the possibilities of the medium from teacups to monumental architectural sculpture. Jim exhibits his work internationally, is the co-author of two books on ceramics techniques, and has published many articles on traditional and modern ceramics - featured recently in the summer issue of Ceramics Monthly, year 2000. He and his wife Judith lead hands-on art and culture ecotours to South Asia every year, which help to conserve traditional arts.

After living in Nepal for ten years, he is now settled on the infamous "Lost Coast of California.

His current work is mainly wheel-thrown translucent porcelain chosen for its light-catching qualities - multi-layered colored slip images and burnished 24 karat gold, requiring several firings. The imagery is often based on ancient, universal symbols which relate so well to the universality of pottery -- the hollow vessel itself is a rich symbol. Subtle details provide lasting interest.

About his work, Jim says "I like to make things that can add richness to the everyday experience of using pottery. A cup can hold more depth of meaning than a painting on the wall, offering not only a rich visual experience of textures and suggestive images, but also a tactile treat for hands and lips. The challenge is to make an everyday object that transcends the trivial and continues to provide new connections over many years. My ideas come from the unconscious; lately they are symbolic windows or openings, with references to the minute vegetation of the forest floor where I live."