Art Spy: James Newton Ceramics

Art Spy was out working their cover job this weekend in the Berkeley Hills and came across a sure sign that art is alive and thriving in Alameda County, a very discrete hand lettered pottery for sale sign pointing through an open gate.

So, of course, I stopped.

James Newton was eating a Spartan lunch of rye crackers and what looked like a nice goat cheese as I entered the kitchen and began gathering intelligence.

James Newton, native of Berkeley and a product of the many fine public institutions in the Bay Area, began working the clay as a Berkeley High School student in the late 70’s. He quickly found out that—here is some fresh intelligence—the ceramics studio at Cal Berkeley is open to the general public. James continued his education at SFSU where he earned a performing arts degree and began to work as a modern dancer.

Fast forward and now James is working as a ceramics instructor. He is fascinated by the glazing process and firing techniques and uses a number of innovative as well as traditional glazing and firing processes in his work and his teaching.

James’ work ranges from functional pottery to sculptural objects, any of which might be pit fired, raku fired, or fired at Cone 6 in an electric kiln. His newest styles and glazed finishes are presented semiannually at his studio over several sales weekends in July and November.

James’ pieces range in price from $10 through $500 and are available through the artist. He has an open studio and pottery sale going on now. He may be reached through his website, www.jamesnewtonceramics.com.

For additional information about James and his work check out his website or better yet visit his home studio in the Berkeley Hills.

Remember art is alive out there and so is Art Spy. If you have a tip for Art Spy please email artspy510@gmail.com