Norman Schulman

Born 1924  New York, New York

Died 2014  Penland, North Carolina

EDUCATION

1950 Diploma Parsons School of Design, New York, New York

1951 BS Art School of Education, New York University, New York, New York

1958 MFA Ceramic Design, New York State College of Ceramics, Alfred University, Alfred, New York

APPRENTICESHIPS AND RESIDENCIES

1971 Residency, Penland School of Crafts, Penland, North Carolina

PRIMARY WORK EXPERIENCE

1951-1954 Packaging and Materials Handling Engineer, Wright Aero Division of Curtis Wright, Woodbridge, New Jersey

1954-1956 Supervisor of Packaging Engineering, Wright Aero Division of Curtis Wright, Woodbridge, New Jersey

1958-1965 Ceramics Instructor, Toledo Museum of Art, Toledo, Ohio

1965-1973 Associate Professor, Head of Ceramics and Glass, Rhode Island School of Design, Providence, Rhode Island

1974-1975 Professor, Head of Ceramics and Glass, Rhode Island School of Design, Providence, Rhode Island

1975-1977 Professor, Head of Ceramics, Rhode Island School of Design, Providence, Rhode Island

1978-1982 Norman Schulman Studio, Penland, North Carolina

!982-1984 Head of Ceramics, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio

1984-2014 Norman Schulman Studio, Penland, North Carolina

Biography

Norman Schulman’s work in series occupied him for many years which allowed him to explore an idea repeatedly over a long period of time. Between 1956 and 1976 he focused on stoneware serving vessels and tall figurative vessels. It was at this time that he focused on double walled vessels inspired by Islamic ceramics. This body of work often has carved, fluted surfaces, decorated with calligraphic brushstrokes. In 1976, he began producing salt glazed porcelain work. He continued salt firing porcelain through 1993.

At one point, Schulman realized he was primarily interested in painting on vessels.  He turned to producing platters, chargers, cylindrical vases, teapots and bowls all  created to provide a large area for painting. He used engobes, glaze, and slip trailing on this work. Eventually he settled on the stele (a form that is taller than wide with at least 2 flat surfaces.) because it provided large flat areas for painting.

Schulman studied with Ruth Canfield at New York University and with Charles Harder and Ted Randall at Alfred. In 2007, Schulman was the first person to be named a Penland School of Crafts Outstanding Artist Educator.