BIOGRAPHY

Chris Alveshere recently completed a long-term residency at The Clay Studio of Missoula, and continues to maintain a full-time studio practice in Missoula, MT. He currently teaches art education and ceramics at the University of Montana, in addition to adult and youth community education classes. Originally from North Dakota, Chris received undergraduate degrees in ceramics and art education from Minnesota State University in Moorhead, MN and his MFA in ceramics from Alfred University.

ARTIST STATEMENT

My pots are an investigation of items I find curious, feel sentimental towards, or objects I find humor in. This investigation could come from the object’s surface, form, or most often from intriguing proportion or scale. Forms, parts, and clay and glaze colors are curated to be strong and inventive with high contrast. Inflated swells, large knobs, and enamel-like sheens from sanded surfaces and glazes create exaggerated, vibrant pieces.

I visualize pots in everyday objects and places, seeing the potential of form and color in everything from vintage wooden toys, a pile of Skittles, or wandering thrift stores. This inspiration has steered me into making pots other than traditional dinner ware. I am making work for the countertop, and pots that allow for a vast range of function. Foremost is an intention to make pieces that have a sense of whimsy, humor, and color. Audacious, lively, and cheeky, pieces with attitude and intention.

Website: www.chrisalveshere.com
Instagram: @chriscookskilns