The Potter's Craft: A Practical Guide for the Studio and Workshop (ePub)

Charles Fergus Binns (1857-1934) remains an esteemed figure in the world of ceramics, widely recognized as a pioneer in American studio pottery. Born in England, where he developed his craft, Binns emerged as a notable ceramicist and educator, dedicated to the advancement of pottery as both an artistic and scientific endeavor. After serving as the director of the Royal Porcelain Works in Worcester, Binns emigrated to the United States, where he became the founding director of the New York State School of Clay-Working and Ceramics at Alfred University in 1900, which later became a prominent institution in the field under his leadership.

His seminal work, 'The Potter's Craft: A Practical Guide for the Studio and Workshop' (1910), embodies his commitment to elevating pottery through rigorous methodology and aesthetic appreciation. The book is considered a classic in ceramic literature, offering insights into techniques, materials, and glaze formulas. It reflects Binns' scientific approach to ceramics, intertwined with his belief in pottery's artistic merit. His literary style is informative yet accessible, underscoring his role as an educator. Binns' legacy endures, cemented by his contributions to ceramic education and his influence on generations of potters through his teachings and writings.