William Pitney

1914Born

2005Died

EDUCATION

1942BFA Pratt Institute, Brooklyn, New York

1950MFA New York State College of Ceramics, Alfred University, Alfred, New York

PRIMARY WORK EXPERIENCE

1950-1972Professor and Head of Ceramic Division, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan

William Pitney threw simple forms with a straight-forward and carefully designed surface treatment. He created pieces in both porcelain and stoneware.

Pitney spent years researching and formulating various clay bodies resulting in his ability to change the texture of the clay as well as the ability to use various firing temperatures. The surfaces of his pieces are often incised using natural or geometric motifs. Pitney’s work reflects an iconic mid-20^th century aesthetic. He studied with Daniel Rhodes and Charles Harder at Alfred.