Andrew Avakian

1982 Born Greenville, South Carolina

EDUCATION

2001-2005 BFA Ceramics, Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, North Carolina

2011-2013 Post Baccalaureate in Ceramics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida

RESIDENCIES

2006-2007 Resident Artist, Cub Creek Foundation, Appomattox, Virginia

2010 Summer Resident, Cub Creek Foundation, Appomattox, Virginia

2013-2015 Resident Artist, Odyssey Center for the Ceramic Arts, Asheville North Carolina

2016-2017 Resident Artist, Clay Studio of Missoula, Missoula, Montana

PRIMARY WORK EXPERIENCE

2005 Studio Technician, Western Carolina University Ceramics, Cullowhee, NC

2005 Museum Assistant, Western Carolina University Fine Arts and Performing Center, Cullowhee, North Carolina

2006 Studio Assistant, Cub Creek Foundation, Appomattox, Virginia

2008–2009 Studio Assistant, Claymaker’s Studio, Durham, North Carolina

2012 Ceramics Instructor, Reitz Union Craft Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida

2015 Gallery Assistant, Clay Studio of Missoula, Missoula, Montana

BIOGRAPHY 

Andrew Avakian is known for hand built terra cotta vessels. His work is characterized by pattern, color and geometric abstraction of both the form and decoration.  Avakian begins his surface decoration in the greenware stage (pre-fired) by carving a rough texture into the surface. This is followed by applying layers of different colored  glazes and terra sigillata in areas of the patterned surface.  Themes of color, architecture, historical ceramics, and abstract painting are explored.

Avakian states that many of his vessels are the result of attempts to understand classic pottery proportions. Work is created mainly by the slab and template method. Post firing, each piece is sand blasted, revealing the multiple layers of underglazes and terra sigillata. The work is then fired a final time, producing a softer finish.