Photo: TMP
Photo: TMP
Photo: TMP
Photo: TMP

Man with a Cat-Sculpture

USA, 1984
Holter Museum of Art, Helena, Montana
Date acquired:
Materials:
Stoneware
Form - Functional: N/A
Form - Sculptural: N/A
Method:
Cast
Carved
Surface Technique: N/A
Kiln Type: N/A
Glazes:
Glaze
Richard Swanson

James Makinswork moved from porcelain dinnerware and serving pieces to sculptural work. The latter works can be monumental vessel forms or compositions of multiple functional forms placed on thrown trays in carefully arranged groupings. The pieces are either painted or airbrushed resulting in dense, deep colors that absorb rather than reflect light. These compositions range from monochromatic to multi colored.

Makin's apprenticeship with Byron Temple gave him insights into the blending of eastern and western pottery traditions. This theme has guided his work throughout his career. Makins studied with Richard DeVore at Cranbrook and began to explore the characteristics of porcelain. He found it rigid, restrictive, and able to be pushed and pulled out of shape yet retain the extreme ridged surfaces of his throwing technique. These throwing rings are characteristic of his work.

"
Holter Museum of Art, Helena, Montana

Swanson in other collections

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These records have been reviewed by the curatorial staff but may be incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced.

Last updated: April 22, 2026

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