James Olney

James started clay work in college graduating with a BA in ceramics from Southwestern University in Georgetown Texas in 2002. He then moved to Pittsboro, NC where he did a formal apprenticeship with master wood fire potter Mark Hewitt from 2002-2005. After his apprenticeship James continued work  as a journeyman. First, he worked with master potter Bill Gossman in New London, MN for about 4 months where James learned to use the skills he gained from his apprenticeship and began pushing his creativity in different directions. In 2006 he moved to  East Africa, Tanzania where he served as an environment volunteer in the US Peace Corp. Here he worked with local farmers and beekeepers learning traditional village farming techniques as well as learning from Potters in a nearby village. After his apprenticeship James continued work  as a journeyman. First, he worked with master potter Bill Gossman in New London, MN for about 4 months where James learned to use the skills he gained from his apprenticeship and began pushing his creativity in different directions. In 2006 he moved to  East Africa, Tanzania where he served as an environment volunteer in the US Peace Corp. Here he worked with local farmers and beekeepers learning traditional village farming techniques as well as learning from Potters in a nearby village. James then returned to Dallas and started working at the Craft Guild of Dallas in 2010. He soon moved to South Dallas and started Oak Cliff Pottery.  James focuses mainly on woodfired stoneware and porcelain and makes pots for local restaurants.  He can also be seen selling his wares at the local farmers markets and at shows around the country.