Well-formed Plan

Alumus explores cultural themes at ceramics residency in Florida

From The Ichabod - Winter 2021

“I am Korean-American with an entirely American upbringing. When someone meets me, they see an Asian person and will have their own assumptions based on appearance.”

Just like the artist himself, with Tyler Quintin’s ceramics, there’s more to it than meets the eye.

As a ceramist, Tyler Quintin’s sculptural work is laced with deep meaning along with exploration of the theme of identity with personal symbolism.

“When people get to know me, they end up finding a very American individual,” Quintin said. “My work reflects this conflict of appearance by creating traditional Korean ceramic vessels devoid of surface, which speaks to the divide between my appearance and culture.”

Quintin, bfa ’16, will continue to explore these themes in his work as a resident of the Morean Center for Clay in St. Petersburg, Florida. As one of only five artists accepted into the program in 2020, the residency provides Quintin many benefits, including a semi-private studio, unlimited kiln firings, affordable housing and paid teaching opportunities. He will also work toward a capstone experience solo exhibition in the Morean galleries.

“The Morean is integrated into the ceramics community, giving me exposure to other galleries and curators with more potential for exhibition,” Quintin said. “It also provides opportunities to enhance my experience as an educator – teaching is something I want to do throughout my career.”

At Washburn, Quintin’s studio art emphasis of study allowed him to explore all facets of the arts. However, he credits his mentor, the late Professor Glenda Taylor, for helping him focus his efforts in ceramics.

“Glenda encouraged me in the world of clay and in art in general,” Quintin said. “Ceramics was her passion, and she always went above and beyond for her students.”

While at Washburn, Quintin was the recipient of the Barbara L. Buzick Art Scholarship.

“I had an amazing four years at Washburn,” Quintin said. “Having those years fully-funded allowed me the opportunity to really focus on my education and taking opportunities I never would have had, like studying abroad in Belgium.”

After his residency, Quintin hopes to obtain his master’s degree and continue to advance as an artist.

“I’ve thought of opening a studio or going into academia, but I want a lot of experience first to be a well-rounded, better professor to students.”