Carson Culp
Carson in the Leach Pottery kiln
Carson working on Standard Ware mugs
in the Leach Pottery Studio
American potter, Carson’s journey as a craftsman has been shaped by hands-on experience and meaningful connections gained through numerous jobs and apprenticeships, including an enriching stint at the prestigious Leach Pottery in 2017. This was followed by a 3-month residency at the Mashiko Museum of Ceramic Art in Mashiko, Japan.
Carson’s focus lies in the preservation of handmade qualities and making with intent and care; a commitment forged through a love for the process of turning clay into ceramic. Exploring diverse cultures and their techniques through clay during his travels, has been a constant source of inspiration, deeply and continuously influencing his approach.
Carson’s artistic expression predominantly derives from forms made on a potter’s wheel. These forms are then treated as canvases as he decorates with patterns, colour, texture, and the use of overlapping glazes. For him, working with clay is more than a vocation; it's a soul-nurturing journey.
Carson participated in multiple residencies worldwide such as Taller De Terreno BCS, Mexico, La Meridiana International School of Ceramic Art Tuscany, Italy, Greenwich House Pottery New York, New York, and many others. These residencies have shaped his work to be versatile and eclectic as he adapts to his environment and materials at hand. Allowing place, curiosity, community, and trust be a constant source of fuel and inspiration.
In January 2025 Carson has been resident at Montsalvat Artists Colony, near Melbourne, teaching workshops and techniques learnt and inspired at the Leach Pottery and he will be exhibiting work in the Warrandyte Pottery Expo in February. Through March and April Carson will travel to Ubud, Bali for a workshop collaboration with Vessel Retreats where he will be teaching and exploring hand-building techniques. In the summer he will return to Las Meridiana, Italy to hold workshops. A very busy potter!
As Carson continues to travel, explore, educate, and further his artistic practice through residencies, he feels even more connected to a legacy that was spread through its disciples. Being a former Leach Potter has given him a sense of pride and he feels somewhat obligated to educate and spread a sort of philosophy behind making.
Carson is looking toward the future with a plan, yet is ready to embrace anything that is thrown his way! He hopes to impact people's lives through his teachings, his character, and his work. The mentor-apprentice relationship has deep meaning for him and he strives to foster that with a younger generation of potters.