Stephen Rodriguez, Stephen A. Rodriguez

1950Born Los Angeles, California

EDUCATION

1972-1976Fine and Liberal Arts, Rio Hondo College, Whittier, California

1976-1978Ceramics and Glass, New York State College of Ceramics, Alfred University, Alfred, New York

PRIMARY WORK EXPERIENCE

1978—Studio Potter

1981-1988Studio Manager, Clay Art Center, Port Chester, New York

1990Ceramics Department Head, Creative Arts Workshop, New Haven, Connecticut

1990—Pottery Instructor, Guilford Art Center, Guilford, Connecticut

1990—Pottery Instructor, Creative Arts Workshop, New Haven, Connecticut

1991—Department Head, Pottery, Creative Arts Workshop, New Haven, Connecticut

1992-2000Founding Member, Gallery 12, Guilford, Connecticut

Stephen Rodriguez’ work is a continual exploration of functional forms including vases, large jars, large bowls, bottles, platters, tea bowls, and water jars for the tea ceremony.

Rodriguez is greatly influenced by art and artists throughout history, including the ancient pottery of China, Japan, Korea, Greece, and other civilizations. In addition to creating pottery, he has built numerous gas kilns. His work is fired in one of his gas kilns. He often adds ash from various woods to the kiln chamber during the firing to add a glassy look to the surfaces of his pieces.