About the Maker

Pottery is a natural extension of Stan Taylor’s life. His curiosity and appreciation of functional beauty led him to pursue wood-fired pottery in his late 30s, after a career in carpentry, building and woodwork. As a constant student, he studied the techniques developed over centuries, knowing that the oldest records of civilization are kept through pottery shards. He feels joy and responsibility in creating something that may last through time, telling a story of this place he loves.

His creativity is deeply informed by his environment. He works in his home studio in the Sierra Foothills, where he throws, carves, and fires in the shade of a wide variety of oaks, fruit trees and pines. The simple, elemental forms and colors of his ceramics are a reflection of this country lifestyle. His bowls and cups often sit full of food grown and cider pressed by himself and his friends. He takes pleasure in the slow, seasonal nature of life as a potter—firing often in the wet months, and tending to his various passions and projects while the kiln sits dormant in summer.

He regards laughter above most things, finds humor and humility in trying something new, and great joy in sharing it with his community.