Ron Kovatch
I met Jeff at Penland when Dan Anderson was teaching upstairs and I was teaching downstairs. Jeff and I traded cups, then, and if my memory serves, Jeff most likely got the short end of the deal. Pre-internet and email, we often kept in touch via postal mail, but then as human nature and geography often dictates we simply lost touch. Nevertheless, I really liked Jeff, and each time I picked up his cup, I had strong memories of his wit, charm, and intelligence. Like most of us who have touched clay, he had strong influences, but Jeff’s voice was unique and he not only owned it but also refined it. He was comfortable in his skin, and he made me feel happy to be in the same room. Jeff’s work evolved to represent his powerful intelligence and sensitive touch, yet he remained so delightfully human, humble, and humorous.
Ron Kovatch
January 10, 2021
I met Jeff at Penland when Dan Anderson was teaching upstairs and I was teaching downstairs. Jeff and I traded cups, then, and if my memory serves, Jeff most likely got the short end of the deal. Pre-internet and email, we often kept in touch via postal mail, but then as human nature and geography often dictates we simply lost touch. Nevertheless, I really liked Jeff, and each time I picked up his cup, I had strong memories of his wit, charm, and intelligence. Like most of us who have touched clay, he had strong influences, but Jeff’s voice was unique and he not only owned it but also refined it. He was comfortable in his skin, and he made me feel happy to be in the same room. Jeff’s work evolved to represent his powerful intelligence and sensitive touch, yet he remained so delightfully human, humble, and humorous.
Ron Kovatch
January 10, 2021