On making work, Jeff Shapiro looks first at the artistic elements of what he wants to make before jumping to intellectual dissection. Born in the Bronx in 1949, he didn’t study ceramic until 1973 when he lived in Japan. It was while living in Japan that he developed the ethos behind his practice. He wants to be inspired and responsive to the experiences he encounters before reading into messaging. That sort of impulse pushes him toward modes of artistic improvisation and discovery. Though he largely works in wood fired pottery, he brings that improvisation to whatever technique necessary to resolve the work. To that end, he is attempting to achieve a harmony between himself, the concept, and the material in an effort to “let go” and lean into the imperfections of nature. Presently, he is based in upstate New York. His work has been exhibited internationally in more than eight countries. In addition he was taught workshops and seminars in many countries.