Lots of great new titles focusing on pottery and ceramics were published in 2023 and late 2022. Our top picks are below, including a mix of technique and art history books.
For more books, check out these posts from last year:
By My Hands: A Potter’s Apprenticeship by Florian Gadsby
Florian Gadsby has been documenting his ceramic journey since his student days via Instagram, YouTube and other social media sites. A dynamic, exacting potter and engaging instructor via his videos, in By My Hands Gadsby shares a behind-the-scenes look at his journey in his first book.
Hardcover, 400 pages, published Fall 2023 by Ten Speed Press, $35
Handbuilt: A Modern Potter’s Guide by Lilly Maetzig
Lilly Maetzig is a potter who has built a strong following online for instructional videos (search for Mae Ceramics) and in her first book, introduces more than 20 projects that you can do without a wheel including a pedestal bowl, pinched teapot, and nest plates.
Hardcover, 176 pages, published spring 2023 by Quadrille Publishing, $24
Form and Surface: African Ceramics from the William M. Itter Collection by Diane Pelrine
This book celebrates the African ceramics held in the collection of the Sidney and Lois Eskinazi Museum of Art at the University of Indiana.
Hardcover, 192 pages, published Fall 2023 by Scala Arts Publishers, $50
Ceramic Artist on Creative Processes by Miguel Ángel Pérez Arteaga
In this book, 25 ceramic artists from around the world describe their art making methodology and practice in their own words. Richly illustrated, it offers a deep insight into the minds of professional artists.
Hardcover, 304 pages, published Fall 2023 by Hoaki, $40
Lucie Rie: The Adventure of Pottery by Andrew Nairne
Published to coincide with a UK exhibition of Rie’s work, this catalogue includes five new essays examining Rie’s work and career and includes more than 150 images in full color.
Hardcover, 240 pages, published September 2023 by Kettle’s Yard, $45
Beginner’s Guide to Decorating Pottery by Emily Reinhardt
A thorough guide for beginners, this book covers glazes, inlay and surface decoration, lusters, patterns and mark making, and more in an easy-to-follow format. Part of a series of beginner’s guides to ceramics.
Paperback, 160 pages, published September 2023 by The Quarry Books, $25
Kate Malone: A Life in Clay by Emma Crichton-Miller
One of the UK’s leading ceramic artists, this monograph examines the work and career of Kate Malone, born 1959. With essays, color photographs and more, this book will be sure to delight fans of Malone’s work and others, who may have seen Malone as a judge on the Great Pottery Throwdown.
Hardcover, 252 pages, published by Skira, December 2023, $60.
Colors of Kyoto: The Seifū Yohei Ceramic Studio by Shinya Maezaki
This book takes a deep and comprehensive look, for the first time in English, at the Kyoto studio of Seifū Yohei, who was the first ceramist to be named an Imperial Household Artist. The book includes essays and images of 100 artworks, as well as discussion of technique, forms, and glazes that were unique to the studio.
Paperback, 216 pages, published September 2023 by Giles, $30
Promise Me The Earth by Kristin Morgin
This monograph examines Los Angeles artist Kristin Morgin who makes unfired sculptures from a mixture of clay, glue, wood and other materials. Known for her wit, craftsmanship, and ability to twist pop art to her own ends, this book includes a lengthy interview with the artist as well as numerous illustrations. Each copy is signed by the artist and includes a small drawing.
Hardcover, 120 pages, published Marc Selwyn FIne Art, late 2022, $60.
Earth & Fire: Modern Ceramicists, Their Tools, Techniques, and Practice by Kylie Johnson and Tiffany Johnson
Earth & Fire explores the techniques and practices of 45 ceramic artists, ranging from potters to sculptors to jewelers and more. The book includes more than 300 color photos and illustrations, illuminating a wide variety of ceramic techniques.
Hardcover, 272 pages, published by Thames and Hudson, September 2023, $50
Ash Glazes: Techniques and Glazing from Natural Sources by Phil Rogers and Hajeong Lee Rogers
Updated and edited by Hajeong Lee Rogers, this classic by Phil Rogers explores the history of ash glazes, how to test and mix the, and how to apply them to get the best results. With images of potters who use ash glazes from around the world, this new edition provides inspiration for ceramic artists interested in exploring and reinventing this age-old tradition.
Hardcover, 192 pages, published October 2023 by Herbert Press, $40
Nina Fránková: Hollow by Nina Fránková
The first monograph on the Czech artist, who was born in 1987, the book includes numerous images and five essays.
Paperback, 160 pages, published fall 2023 by Onomatopee Projects, $18
Ceramics in America 2023 edited by Robert Hunter
The latest edition of the yearly journal, the 2023 edition includes essays on backwoods North Carolina potter John Wesley Carpenter, contemporary artist David Mack, a snuff box made in London in the 18th century from American clay, and more. Richly illustrated throughout.
Hardcover, 240 pages, published Fall 2023 by the Chipstone Foundation, $65
Roger Capron: Céramiste by Pierre Staudenmeyer
(Book is in French) A vastly expanded reprint of a 2003 monograph that examines the life and career of French ceramic sculptor and ceramic manufacturer Roger Capron, 1922–2006. This richly illustrated edition includes text by Pierre Staudenmeyer and an interview between Capron’s wife Jacotte Capron and Flavien Gaillard.
Hardcover, 208 pages, published October 2023 by Editions Norma, $60 (French language edition)
Are there any recently published ceramic books that we missed? Let us know in the comments.
For more books, check out these posts from last year:
