Paul Soldner: April 24, 1921 to January 3, 2011
Paul Soldner has made numerous invaluable contributions to the field of ceramics, including developing what has been come to be known as "American Raku", and a technique known as "low-temperature salt firing". New issues and ideas have always been incorporated into Soldner's work. His development of the low-temperature salt firing method for his raku pieces and his "pedestal pieces" - thrown and altered sculptural clay forms - push the limits of clay, revealing unique textures and forms. Soldner is also the author of numerous articles and a book ("Kilns and Their Construction"), and the founder of the Anderson Ranch Arts Center in Snowmass Village, Colorado. From 1991-1992 Soldner served as the Artist-in-Residence at the Claremont Graduate School in Ca., and was the Professor of Ceramics at Scripps College and Claremont Graduate School from 1969-1991. AMOCA founder David Armstrong was Paul Soldner’s last student and inspiration as he founded the only museum on the West Coast dedicated to ceramic art. Artist Paul Soldner has left a great legacy in the world of ceramics.
