About John Mason

  • Biography

    John Mason (March 30, 1927 – January 20, 2019) was an American artist known for his experimental work in ceramics that expanded the boundaries of the medium. From very early on, Mason's work focused on exploring the physical properties of clay and its "extreme plasticity." One of a group of artists who had studied under the pioneering ceramicist Peter Voulkos, he created wall reliefs and expressionistic sculptures, often on a monumental scale.

    Mason's early childhood was spent in the Midwest; Mason's family moved to Fallon, Nevada in 1937, where he finished elementary and high school. Mason settled in Los Angeles in 1949 at the age of 22. Mason attended Otis Art Institute, and in 1954 enrolled at Chouinard Art Institute, w...

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