Thom Shields

“Fence Post Pottery”

e-mail

Phone:  850.576-9405

            Thom began throwing pots as a student at FSU where he received a bachelor’s degree in Constructive Design.  He has pursued his interest in craft arts while employed as a Fine Arts Production Specialist at Ruby Diamond Auditorium where he was a Master Carpenter and Rigger for almost 30 years before retiring in 2008.  Thom has a special interest in pottery but has also designed works in textiles and wood.

Pot 1

      Thom’s pottery, walking sticks and fiber art were presented in a One Man Show at the Oglesby Gallery at FSU and were shown in a collaborative exhibit with Chase Stroempl and Barbara Davis at Railroad Square.  In 2002 his pots were on display at the Oglesby Union in a show entitled “Mud Puppies:  An Exhibit of Clay Art and Photography.”  His pieces have also been seen at the Explorer’s Club, at the Tau Tu Studios and at Turtle Island.  Thom has participated in the annual Art in Gadsden exhibition for many years, and in 2003 he was awarded an Honorable Mention for his raku fired “Carved Copper Pot.”  Most recently, Thom was asked to display his pottery at the final performance of the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra this past April.    

Wide Pot 3

Thom’s interest in Native Americans has influenced the carved designs and shapes of many of his pots, and he continues to explore influences to incorporate into his work.  Most recently he has been learning raku firing with Robin Rodgers.

Pot on Red 2