OUR STORY & PHILOSOPHY
Melissa Kelsey is a native of the Black Hills area and graduated from Sundance. She grew up with an appreciation and love for nature, colors, and tones found in the outdoors like the early morning and evening skies, frost on windows, and the varying terrain and flora of Crook County, Her MK Ceramics creations are inspired by that love of nature which is evident in the earthy feel of all of her pieces. Her glaze knowledge and her internal vision of what a piece is desiring come out jaw dropping beautiful.
She currently resides in the Phoenix, Arizona area where she is President of the Arizona Clay Association. In this role, Melissa works with a Board of seven other volunteers to bring together ceramicists from all over the U.S, to exchange ideas and information through workshops, meetings, exhibitions, studio tours and sales as well as initiatives to increase the public awareness and appreciation of the Ceramic Arts.
Though she keeps busy in Arizona, Melissa holds her Crook County, Wyoming roots dear to her heart. She returns back to the area whenever able to spend time with her family and friends, and to soak in the natural beauty that is so unique to Sundance and the Black Hills.
Adrian Whitmore, a talented functional potter, believes that pottery should be more than just decorative—it should be functional and utilized as an item of everyday use. With a passion for creating beautiful pieces that are not only visually appealing but also feel great in the hand, Adrian aims to provide a sense of pleasure to the owner, whether the pottery is used for holding food or beverages.
Born in Cody, Wyoming, an artistic hub that has fostered the talents of renowned artists such as Jackson Pollock and Harry Jackson, and Gary Shoop; Adrian was immersed in a creative environment from an early age. Encouraged by his parents, who themselves were artists, Adrian explored various artistic mediums, including watercolor, graphite drawings, and sculpting. As he pursued his education in art at Eastern Wyoming College and the University of Wyoming, he delved into the works of influential potters like Bernard Leach and Warren Mackenzie, and Jack McClennan and drawing inspiration from their techniques and philosophies. Adrian's exposure to a diverse range of art styles and cultures through his father's connections in the art world expanded his artistic horizons. In his pursuit of pushing the boundaries of drawing and design, Adrian seeks to imbue his ceramic pieces with the essence of a painting or sculpture.
Every piece he creates possesses a tactile feel, and carefully chosen glazes are utilized to enhance both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the ware. Adrian's pottery transcends the traditional definition of functional ceramics—it is a true piece of art that seamlessly integrates into everyday life. Through his dedication to craftsmanship and his commitment to making art accessible through utility, Adrian invites individuals to embrace the beauty and joy of art in their daily routines. He is very happy playing in mud. He splits his time from Sundance and AZ.
1875 Gift and Gallery-WY
"Each one of your pieces is unique and functional and so artistic, please keep bringing pieces in."
Steven W. -WY
"It felt perfect in my hand, and when my coffee comes out it flows so smooth."
Anon
"I now have a favorite bowl that I use for everything it just feels perfect."