Joe Zeller
Former professor, Cleveland Institute of Art
I'm kind of out of the loop in the ceramic world so I'm belatedly learning of Jeff's passing. Just had coffee in one of his mugs this morning. I had the joy of working with, teaching and learning from Jeff while we were both at the Cleveland Institute of Art.
Everyday was an adventure. Jeff absorbed information and seemed to spontaneously invent new ways to interpret it. Out came exciting pots. In 40 years of teaching ceramics, Jeff was one of very few potters I taught who had the magic. His hands touched clay differently than the rest of us. The clay seemed an extension of his being, an uninterrupted flow from his mind through his hands giving the clay life. In addition, he was a pleasure to be around. Every memory I have of him brings smiles to my face and joy to my heart.
That he is gone leaves an empty space. He was a sweet person, gifted, happy, a true human being.
Joe Zeller
September 16 2020
Former professor, Cleveland Institute of Art
I'm kind of out of the loop in the ceramic world so I'm belatedly learning of Jeff's passing. Just had coffee in one of his mugs this morning. I had the joy of working with, teaching and learning from Jeff while we were both at the Cleveland Institute of Art.
Everyday was an adventure. Jeff absorbed information and seemed to spontaneously invent new ways to interpret it. Out came exciting pots. In 40 years of teaching ceramics, Jeff was one of very few potters I taught who had the magic. His hands touched clay differently than the rest of us. The clay seemed an extension of his being, an uninterrupted flow from his mind through his hands giving the clay life. In addition, he was a pleasure to be around. Every memory I have of him brings smiles to my face and joy to my heart.
That he is gone leaves an empty space. He was a sweet person, gifted, happy, a true human being.
Joe Zeller
September 16 2020