In the last several months, Mike has developed a new ceramic collection of handbuilt, bottle-like forms that have challenged his relationship with clay and introduced a new dimension to the studio.
Spencer Munson, a local artist and close friend, organized an art show called Once and For All that took place at YES Graphic in Asbury in November 2024. With some time to experiment and build work before the holiday rush, the show provided an opportunity for Mike to push his ceramic work outside of Lovelight. A jump from the white stoneware and porcelain typically used in the studio, Mike’s sculptures are made of a darker clay body and combine dripped glazes, layers of slip and rough surface textures. Pieces from this collection were also featured at the Oyster Point Hotel in Red Bank in February.
The works emerged loosely from sketches, and inspiration from the work of NY-based potter Jeff Shapiro. While Mike wasn’t consciously working from specific symbols or concepts, there are elements that evoke a sense of déjà vu for him – such as one sculpture’s cascading edge, bringing to mind driving on a road cut through a mountain, for example.
After years of focusing on sharpening technical skills specific to Lovelight’s products, this collection is also a leap into lesser-known territory for Mike, who tapped into a more open and intuitive mindset to create these works. Switching gears from production pottery to slower, hand-built sculptures didn’t feel “safe” at first, but the creative risk-taking has resulted in a rewarding exploration of Mike’s ceramic practice. Inquiries are welcome, and stay tuned for more work to come.
'Bussho'
Deshi
Dokusan
Sunyata
