Michael Sherrill (American, b. 1954), Teapot

Stoneware and barium glaze, signed to the underside.

24 x 20 x 5 in.

Michael Sherrill was an acclaimed American ceramicist and sculptor whose innovative work redefined the possibilities of clay as a medium for artistic expression. Born in North Carolina, Sherrill was a largely self-taught artist who began working with ceramics in his late teens, inspired by the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. Over the course of his career, he became known for his technically masterful and visually striking works that combined elements of ceramics, glass, and metal. Sherrill's art is celebrated for its botanical inspiration, often transforming natural forms like leaves, flowers, and vines into intricately detailed and vibrantly colored sculptures. His work sought to capture the essence of nature's delicacy and resilience, creating pieces that were as much about observation as they were about innovation.
Michael Sherrill's art has been widely exhibited in galleries and museums across the United States and internationally. Notable exhibitions include his solo retrospective Michael Sherrill Retrospective, which debuted at the Mint Museum in Charlotte, North Carolina, in 2018, and later traveled to the Smithsonian's Renwick Gallery in Washington, D.C., and the Art Museum of South Texas. His work is part of prestigious collections such as the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), and the Corning Museum of Glass. Throughout his career, Sherrill was honored with numerous awards, including fellowships from the North Carolina Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts. Beyond his artistic achievements, Sherrill was also an inventor, creating tools for ceramic and sculptural artists through his company, Mudtools, which reflected his commitment to advancing the field of ceramics. His legacy endures through his groundbreaking work, which continues to inspire artists and collectors alike.

Good estate condition.