This acclaimed Goldmark documentary tells the story of one of America’s most respected studio potters, Randy Johnston. Set against the backdrop of his picturesque Wisconsin studio, it gives a revealing and moving insight into his artistic journey. Kicking against his family’s desire for him to become a doctor, Johnston tells of his early travels to Japan, meeting the great Shoji Hamada and apprenticing to National Living Treasure, Tatsuzo Shimaoka. We are also taken on a visit to the Minnesotan studio of his lifelong mentor and friend, 94 year old American legend, Warren MacKenzie. A deep thinker, Johnston talks about his approach to his working practice and his philosophy on art and teaching.
Warren MacKenzie
In Conversation | Warren MacKenzie | Part 3
The final part of Warren MacKenzie’s conversation with Randy Johnston. They talk about their diverse influences and inspirations, perfection and imperfection and the excitement of exploring new ideas.
In Conversation | Warren MacKenzie | Part 2
Warren Mackenzie continues his conversation with fellow potter Randy Johnston. MacKenzie looks back at time spent with Bernard Leach in St Ives. They discuss the influence of Japanese ceramics and the importance of making affordable functional ware.
In Conversation | Warren MacKenzie | Part 1
Legendary potter Warren MacKenzie in conversation with former pupil, and potter Randy Johnston. They reminisce about MacKenzie’s early teaching days and Johnston’s first wood kiln.
Inspire Me | Randy Johnston | Important Pots
In his studio surrounded by the snow-clad Wisconsin countryside Randy Johnston reminisces whilst turning foot-rings on yunomi. He contemplates the long-lived aspect of a ceramic object; transcending generations and reaching across time and space. Johnston remembers anecdotes told by Warren MacKenzie about the beginnings of his apprenticeship with Bernard Leach and the 1953 tour of the US by Leach and Hamada and it’s impact upon American ceramics.
Inspire Me | Randy Johnston | Early Inspiration
American potter Randy Johnston turning foot rings on a batch of yunomi muses on the power of pots to promote conversation and evoke memories. He recalls how fate conspired to bring him under the tutelage of the great Warren MacKenzie and reflects upon his Japanese apprenticeship and the myriad of influences that have affected his approach to line and form.
Profile | Warren MacKenzie: A Self-Confessed Man of Mud
At 94, Warren MacKenzie is still to be found at his foot-powered treadle wheel throwing the loose, lively pots that made him America’s most famous potter.