Conner Burns occupies a unique position in American Studio Ceramics. His work while completely functional defies our preconception of what a functional form is. His fluid shapes, surfaced with a simple ash glaze, embellish our daily rituals of food preparation and consumption. His work is both unassuming and non-pretentious.

"Vessels … I enjoy vessels. Vessels that are equally complete standing alone or in use.
I enjoy the sand pattern in the bottom of the small creek that I frequent. I enjoy the rugged bark on the trees, the crooked and aged root systems exposed on the edge of the embankments. I enjoy the way a flower emerges from its bud. I enjoy ‘big picture’ things, but joyfully lose myself in the details that make them so unique.

It is these components that I also appreciate in artwork. I do not desire to replicate anything I see; I do desire for my artwork to evoke feelings consistent with the natural environment with which I am so enamored.

I make them in a manner that brings satisfaction both during the process and when the vessel is complete. I work alone in my studio to focus upon each vessel.

Although I work in a series – nothing is alike nor is it intended to be. Each form should sprout forth and reach out with a quiet dynamic expression. Rich subtleties and organic influences are important. It should look as if it grew that way – rather than being ‘made’. Texture, both visual and tactile, encourage a closer look – a hand reaching out to touch. "