EAST Studio Picks: Ryan McKerley, John Mulvany
A full-time studio potter since 1995, Ryan McKerley has been a fixture of the East Side Studio Tour since its inception. He makes contemporary functional stoneware and porcelain vessels, fired in a wood or soda kiln and decorated with earthy colors.
Ryan really loves what he does, and it shows from his work. You won’t get a warmer welcome than when you enter his studio. “Almost everything about the potter lifestyle appeals to me," he said. "The self-sufficiency, the accessibility and usefulness of the work, and the comradeship of my peers all drew me to this way of life.”
This weekend, he'll be selling his signature porcelain wares with plenty of new designs to choose from: affordable cups, plates and bowls as well as larger, one-of-a-kind jars, vases, platters, teapots, and a selection of discounted works.
Ryan’s studiomates will also be selling their creations. Jeweler/metalsmith Lisa Crowder makes unique pieces ranging from chunky silver rings to whimsical accessories, while Edmund Martinez offers Dia De Los Muertos-inspired paintings and clay objects.
Originally from Ireland, John Mulvany is a prolific artist and editor of Cantanker magazine, a publication dedicated to the burgeoning art scene in Austin. Remarkably skilled in the realist tradition, John creates portraits and character studies with a studied and steady hand. He captures not only an impeccable likeness of the subject, but a sense of the person’s personality as well. His recent work presents more dream-like states and surrealist visions, while retaining all of the exquisite detail.
“My recent work concerns the enduring power of religious belief and how art through the centuries has facilitated and reinforced belief," said Mulvany. "In my paintings I try to explore ideas of dogma, superstition and fundamentalism in religion and politics using images from the past juxtaposed with contemporary settings.”
For E.A.S.T., John’s work will be on view and for sale at his studio at 3401 Govalle Ave. along with installations in the front yard by sculptor and mixed-media artist Carter Cox.
