Philip Mahn – Ceramics
Artist Statement
Philip Mahn was born and raised in Great Falls and currently lives and makes work in Florence. His development as a potter has been through independent study, mentoring, and participation with a variety of community ceramic studios like the Paris Gibson Square, The Clay Studio of Missoula, University of Montana, and the Archie Bray Foundation. His work is an intuitive interaction with clay, naive decoration, and atmospheric firing that is grounded in a rich ceramic history.
The studio compound, which includes a ceramic studio space, several kilns, and a gallery is collectively referred to as “The Potters Field”. This is an ancient reference to where native clays are dug (a field of clay pits). Philip uses various local native clay sources to supplement a variety of self-processed clay bodies incorporated in his work.
A large wood fired kiln is the centerpiece to the work fired on premise. The kiln and kiln shed took about 3 years to construct. The kiln is fired with locally sourced wood (approximately 5 cords/firing) and takes about 3-4 days of continuous firing to reach temperature in excess of 2000°F. The kiln then takes about two weeks to cool before work can be unloaded. The work is uniquely embellished by the atmospheric conditions of flames, ash, and smoke in direct contact with the ceramic forms.
Contact Information
Phillip Mann
578 Sweeney Creek Loop, Florence, MT 59833, United States
(406) 240-2906
apottersfield@yahoo.com
