BIOGRAPHY

Frank McGuirk is a fulltime studio potter and part-time teacher of ceramics at the Carbondale Clay Center. He completed the full undergraduate curriculum in Ceramics at Colorado State University and worked part time as a potter in the 1970s.
Frank went on to earn a PhD in psychology in 1974. He worked in the mental health field for many years, spending time in clay studios whenever possible.
In 2006, Frank realized a long held ambition by returning to ceramic work full-time. Frank has established his own studio near Carbondale Colorado. He makes hundreds of utilitarian and sculptural pieces each year. Many of McGuirk’s recent works are in private and corporate collections. He also has shown his work in numerous shows and exhibitions. His ceramic pieces are functional and some architecture-inspired sculpture. Frank has also been teaching advanced/intermediate ceramics classes at the Carbondale Clay Center in recent years.

Early in 2023 Frank was notified that he had been award the “2022 Artist of The Year Award” by the National Association of Rural Mental Health … a very gratifying recognition acknowledging Frank’s career work in both mental health and ceramic arts.

ARTIST STATEMENT

Frank McGuirk is a fulltime studio potter.  I make utilitarian work with Colorado landscape references as well as exploring geometric patterns as surface treatment. I enjoy exploring architectural-influenced ceramic pieces. Most of my work is wheel thrown, with some hand building, and a mix of surface treatments. I make hundreds of pieces each year. Colorado’s mountains, canyons, aspen forests and landscapes are present in my work in subtle but intentional ways. Additionally, I have developed an interest in the possibilities of interpreting forms of well-known architecture into ceramic pieces.

Recent sculptural work is an outgrowth of consideration of the poignancy of unfulfilled American aspirations. For example, I have been working on a series of “Dream Homes”. These are sculptural works linked by my attempt to convey ephemeral emotions of hope and desire.

Instagram: @fmcguirkceramics