Jonathan Thompson
pottery
Jonathan Thompson is a raku artist based in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. With a passion for ceramics that dates back to 2012, Jonathan was introduced to the art of raku firing through mentorship with renowned ceramic artist Noland Windholz. This experience ignited a deep commitment to the medium and its unique ability to transform clay into expressive, one-of-a-kind pieces. Working from a small, dedicated studio, Jonathan blends traditional raku techniques with a personal, contemporary approach. The unpredictable nature of raku, with its dramatic shifts in color and texture, allows Jonathan to explore the delicate balance between control and spontaneity. Each piece is a reflection of this ongoing dialogue, capturing the dynamic energy of fire and the beauty of imperfection. Artist Statement I've been making pottery for just over 12 years now, the number 12 is the number of foundations. During these formative years I’ve focused primarily on form, working within the constraints of 1.5 lbs of raku clay and experimenting with three primary finishes: copper, crackle glaze, and horsehair. Now that I've established a firm foundation, I'm building up! I’m currently developing a new line of pottery, centered around 3 lbs of clay, with six primary shapes and three primary glazes. This next phase of my work is about building on what I’ve learned and continuing to push the boundaries of my craft, while maintaining a sense of structure and focus. This approach has helped me learn a few words in this clay’s language. I hope to speak a sentence in the next 12 years. Today, Jonathan's work can be found in private collections and galleries, appreciated for its bold forms and rich, vibrant finishes. Through each piece, Jonathan continues to push the boundaries of raku, experimenting with glaze effects, textures, and firing methods to create ceramics that are both visually striking and deeply meaningful.