AlabamaNew York College of Ceramics at Alfred University, MFAUniversity of Illinois of Urbana-Champaign, BFA My work plays upon traditional pottery forms that transcend function while simultaneously embracing it. Divided between utilitarian pottery and glorified functional vessels, both intentions share similar sensibilities and handling of the clay. Ideas and information from each intention feed the other. Each piece is made with a high level of craftsmanship and designed to portray a particular characteristic, gesture, mood, or feeling through its alteration and embellishment, and then enhanced with a wide variety of glazes, glaze applications, and firing methods. I enjoy making pieces in sections that are altered and embellished before assembling them. Many of my pieces are trophy-like, while others are somewhat figurative. I use many glazes that I have developed to accentuate the forms or to invoke particular personalities or characteristics. I thoroughly enjoy all the processes involved in making my work, especially glazing. Often, as I create the pieces, I already have in mind what glaze or glazes I will apply on each. This involves constantly testing and experimenting with glazes in search for new colors, surface textures, special effects, or qualities. Steve Loucks is a full-time potter, working in a studio he shares with his wife. Loucks taught ceramics for over 26 years at Jacksonville State University before retiring in 2013. His work is included in several public and private collections, including the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts in Texas, University of Florida, Tennessee State University, and Greenwich House Pottery center. Loucks was awarded the Alabama State Council on the Arts Fellowship in Crafts twice, the Southern Arts Federation and National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship in Crafts, as well as numerous honors in national juried competitions.