I first became interested in Richard Notkin when I saw his Yixing teapot displayed at the Toledo Art Museum.  That piece moved me a lot, especially since being born in Japan, I was all too aware of the power of war and the atomic bomb. (See below, left).

​I then did a search of his other works, and found his large tile installation ​depicting George Bush, entitled "All Nations Have their Moment of Foolishness."   I was intrigued by the detail, craftsmanship and his boldness of voice.  

My tile installation for my capstone project at Ohio Northern University was partially inspired by his works. But, I first met Mr. Notkin at a seminar in 2013New York at Bailey Ceramic Supplies, and he suggested applying for his short residency program in Helena, MT. I was able to get a seat, and it was one of the greatest learning experiences I had ever had.

​Thank you Richard!

Yixing Teapot by Richard Notkin

It is said that Richard Notkin’s  social commentary covers subjects others avoid; his works ignite conversation and instigate understanding between people. 

To me, Mr. Notkin's down-to-earth nature and his love of people and art are the strongest impressions. 

"All nations Have Their Moment of Foolishness" by Richard Notkin

The was the piece that inspired me to tackle my capstone.  This installation is 7 feet high and 8 feet long!  It is made up of many intricately carved and caste tiles, and each shadow and every inch is planned to give the effect you see.

​It is absolutely amazing!

Arrival in Montana

I think my face shows it all:  the excitement and the worry that I will be learning from "the" tile installation god.  

Richard and his wife Phoebe were so gracious, that by the time I left, I knew that I had made friends for life.

Fellow residents were great, and I recommend serious students of ceramics to study with Mr. Notkin!