Ben Gufford Ceramics



Ben Gufford Ceramics

About The Artist

Ben Gufford • Wilson, NC
Ceramics • CUSTOM COMMISSIONS

Throughout my formative years, I had the honor of studying under esteemed clay artists at local, regional, national, and international levels. These immersive experiences deepened my passion for the art and craft of clay, leading to gallery exhibitions. To refine my skills, I pursued dual Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees in ceramics and graphic design, graduating in 1999 and 2000. Since 2001, I have been actively creating art and teaching within the public school system. My work combines traditional techniques with emerging mediums, allowing me to share diverse perspectives that blend the wisdom of the past, the spirit of the present, and the innovation of the future. Now based in North Carolina, I take great satisfaction in incorporating global influences into my art.



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Q&A with the Artist

Tell us how your work is made.

I incorporate multiple techniques in forming, firing, and glazing. My technical understanding of the medium spans the knowledge of American, Asian, European, and African ceramics with a specific focus on Korean and Japanese ceramics. I have studied, befriended, and learned from many great American ceramic masters, gaining knowledge and understanding that makes my work unique.


What makes you passionate about the medium you work with?

My passion for and connection to clay are deeply rooted in spiritual principles. I view both my creations and myself as cyclical—creation and creator are one and the same; as I create, I am also being created. The psychological, theological, and philosophical connections I hold to clay enable me to express through it what cannot be conveyed through words or mathematics. In this sense, clay is my most fluent language. My interest in brain research, particularly as it relates to clay, language, and consciousness, positions me as a modern-day M.C. Richards in the ceramics world.

What is something unique about you or your practice?

My work blends traditional methods with experimental approaches. I create forms that connect time-honored techniques with innovative concepts. I push boundaries by experimenting with paint, clay, firing processes, and aesthetics. Currently, I'm working on achieving wood-fired pottery aesthetics using an electric kiln and exploring the possibilities of firing acrylic paints in an electric kiln. I've had the opportunity to befriend and confer with renowned glaze and clay experts, including Tom Turner, John Britt, Takuro Shibata, and others.