Tom in his studio

Tom Turnbull is a Nashville potter who loves working in porcelain.  Here is an interview we did with him about his work.

“There is nothing in a pottery studio that I don’t love doing.” Tom Turnbull

A – Tell us a little bit about yourself.

-) 58 yrs. old.  married, two step-sons, 2 grandchildren, another on the way

A – What motivates you to create?

-) to quote Chuck Close “inspiration is for amateurs.  An artist gets up and goes to work.”  I don’t wait for inspiration or the creative spark.  There’s way too much that needs to be done.

A – What is it about ceramics that draws you as opposed to other art forms?

-) There are a number of things-
time- we know ceramic will last at 10,000 years.  No doubt a lot, lot longer.  I have no need for a tombstone when I pass.  My work will mark my life.

-) the feel & flexibility of clay.  I love how it feels & moves.

A – What makes your work unique in your eyes?

-) glaze- I’m painting with glass.  The chemistry, the intuitive nature of glaze, the unknown when I open a kiln.

Small Square Plate wtih tree

A – Why porcelain?

-)I have a deep reverence for clay & porcelain is the purest type of clay.  I’ll often wash my hands before working with clay.  Porcelain is also a better substrate for my glazes.

A – How did you learn your craft?

-) most of what ability I have I credit to hard work.  The one, maybe only innate skill I have is that I have a very good sense of form.  That comes naturally to me & I don’t know why I have it.

-) My father worked in a ceramic materials business before I was born.  He started his own ceramic supply business when I was 8 years old & I grew up in the business.  I also served an apprenticeship as a potter.

A  – Did you always want to be an artist?

-) No I didn’t always want to be a potter, but I knew that I wanted to be a potter in the later part of my life and I will be a potter for the rest of my days.  Not to be morbid at all, but I hope to die working.

Round Dinner Plate

A – What’s your favorite thing to make?

-) There is nothing in a pottery studio that I don’t love doing.  I guess if I had to choose, it would be bowls.  Or maybe vases, or 2D wall pieces, or covered jars.

A – aside from pottery, what are your interests?

-) Tai Chi & running & walking for exercise.  I love being around my family.

A – Where do you see yourself in 20 years?

-) 20 years from now? making pottery.

A – Where can people find your work?

-) people can find my work at Adornments in Franklin