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Biography
Born Glen Cove, New York. Thomas received a BA in 1986 from Lewis and Clark College and MFA in 1993 from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville. Skeff worked as the apprentice to Toshiko Takaezu from 1986-1987. Currently, he holds an appointment on the Faculty of Rowan University. Skeff Thomas’ work has been exhibited nationally and internationally. See a list of Skeff's select exhibitions.
Artist Statement
Just over fifteen years ago I witnessed, with my own eyes, a miraculous transformation. Clay, as common a material as anyone could think of, was mystically transformed by hands and spirit and fire into objects of remarkable beauty, into works of art. Since that time, understanding how to use fire as a tool or vehicle for clay’s transformation has been a consistent and driving force in my creative life; it has become the focus for my quest to gain a comprehensive grasp of the ceramic arts. This quest has led me into a wide range of experiences and settings, from the academics of undergraduate and graduate study to an intense year long apprenticeship with Toshiko Takaezu.
My current body of work encompasses the entire gamut of functional ceramics, from pitchers and ewers, tumblers and mugs, to bowls and casseroles and vases. Each day offers me challenges, both physical and intellectual, and it is my desire—or need—to keep making pots and to keep exploring the potential of the ceramic arts. Intuitively, what remains the cornerstone in my creative life is what got it all started fifteen years ago: a passion for using fire as a vehicle for transforming ordinary clay into objects of beauty.
