Artist Bio
Luke Ott is an artist from Northeast Pennsylvania. After high school, Luke's journey in the realm of art continued at Kutztown University, where he pursued a major in art education with a concentration in watercolor.
Since his time in Kutztown, Luke Ott has embarked on a passionate career as a high school art educator, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm for artistic expression with his students since 2009. Over the years, his teaching experiences have not only nurtured his students' artistic growth but have also deepened his own appreciation for the creative process. While Luke's foundation was laid in watercolor, ceramics has become his passion in recent years.
Over the years, Luke Ott's work has been exhibited in numerous shows and events locally. Recently he has broken out of the local scene, showing work in both national and international exhibitions. Luke Ott continues to evolve as an artist, pushing boundaries, and blurring the lines between mediums. As he navigates the ever-shifting landscapes of creativity, Luke remains committed to both his role as an educator and his journey as an artist, leaving a lasting mark on his students and the wider art world.
Artist Statement
My journey as a ceramic artist is rooted in the wisdom passed down from my father, connection to nature and tattoo culture. Through the medium of handmade, slab-built ceramics, I translate these influences into tangible illustrations in, as well as on, clay.
Currently, my exploration of illustrating on clay has led me to new territories of painting and screen printing with underglaze. Yet, my true passion lies within the anagama kiln where my work often teeters on the edge of sculptural and functional. Each piece is meticulously crafted to catch melting wood ash and the brush strokes of flame. The metamorphosis that occurs where wood, flame and earth collaborate to create these unique finishes is my obsession.
With every piece I craft, I strive to capture my father’s enduring lessons and my embrace of nature. As my hands mold clay and fire breathes life into form, I invite those who encounter my work to join me in the celebration of the beauty that surrounds us all.
