In my work there are a number of issues which interest me. It is important to develop an understanding of the materials I use. Because of this, I mix and process my own clay and glazes. I also enjoy firing in a wood fueled kiln. This tradition goes back thousands of years and I enjoy the link to the past. I work within the traditional role of a potter, which is to say, making pottery meant to be used. It is this craft that separates it from the other arts such as painting or sculpture. It is through the elements of touch and use that communication between the object and user occurs. I’m also interested in form which, in large part, is the art of pottery. The tactile qualities, the weight, and how the pots feel. In this age of increasing dependence on machine-made objects and the worship of technology, I feel it’s essential that handmade objects are used as a way for us to communicate with each other.  

EDUCATION: 1976  Apprenticed with potter David Eeles at Shepherds Well Pottery, Mosterton, Dorset, England 1975  B.S., Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: 1987-present Hillcrest Pottery, Colfax, Wisconsin Producing stoneware and porcelain. Built two chambered wood burning kiln 1992-2006 Warren MacKenzie’s Studio, Stillwater, Minnesota Sold pottery through showroom. 1978-1987 Hillcrest Pottery, Beldenville, Wisconsin Produced stoneware and porcelain. Built two chambered wood and oil burning kiln. 1977-1978 Fillmore Street Pottery, Jenison, Michigan Produced stoneware and porcelain. Built single chamber wood burning kiln. Willem’s full resume including exhibitions and publications is availble by request.