Jack Valentine: A Journey in Fine Art Pottery
Jack Valentine is an accomplished ceramic artist whose work intertwines artistry, education, and a passion for Raku pottery. He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ceramics from the University of Akron in 2002 and currently lives in Ravenna, Ohio. Jack specializes in making Raku pottery, a 16th century ancient Japanese art form than can produce stunning colors, intriguing textures, and captivating patterns.
With over 2 decades of experience, his skills and unique vision infuse his distinctive ceramic creations. As an educator, he has taught and inspired other artists for more than two decades, sharing the skills of forming, firing and glazing clay into artistic expression.
Jack’s work has graced hundreds of Fine Art exhibitions across the United States. Each year, he participates in 15-20 national Fine Art exhibitions, showcasing the allure of Raku. His talent has resulted in multiple awards from juried shows, celebrating his mastery of the craft. Accounts of Jack’s work appear in local newspapers and he is nationally recognized in ceramic design publications.
Ceramic Teaching:
Each year, Jack offers several training opportunities, including Raku workshops at Don Drumm Studios in Akron, Ohio (one of the country's top contemporary art and craft retailers, representing over 500 North American artists). Jack’s immersive sessions allow students to breathe life into clay by exploring the magic of glazing, Raku firing, and ceramic transformation.
Beyond Artistry:
Need assistance with equipment setup or repair? Jack’s expertise extends to set-up and repair of kilns and equipment. Visit Jack's Kiln Repair page.