Mud-Pie Dilemma

by John Nance

Hardcover: 217 pages
Publisher: The American Ceramic Society; Second Edition (2003)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1-57498-169-2
Dimensions: 11.35" x 8.75" x 0.9"
Shipping Weight: 2.19 lbs.

The Universal dream of doing work you love and earning a living at it forms the heart of this new edition of a book that has become a favorite of many potters. This fresh account of The Mud-Pie Dilemma updates by 25 years the classic story of Tom and Elaine Coleman and their struggles to create a successful, loving marriage and family while master potter Tom seeks to realize his extraordinary potential as a ceramic artist. The first edition of this book ended with them achieving high artistic and critical success, and low financial rewards. The new edition extends their story from 1977 to 2002, from a farmhouse and studio in Canby, Oregon to a house with swimming pool and studio in the desert outside Las Vegas, Nevada.

A new chapter documents how their lives and work have changed and grown over a quarter-century, and 76 new photographs show the dazzling results. Tom's work achieves new heights of artistry and recognition, and Elaine emerges as a notable artist in her own right.

The volume documents the crucial importance of Tom and Elaine's solid and supportive partnership. Working closely together for three decades have enabled them to convert talent, dedication, and sustained effort into success with both family and work.

The Mud-Pie Dilemma also provides inside information—