Don Reitz (1929–2014)

Ceramic artist who specialized in salt glaze pottery.[28]

What is Don Reitz (1929–2014) known for?

Don Reitz, a renowned ceramic artist and a notable alumni of Belvidere High School, New Jersey, was known for his extensive work in salt glaze pottery. He was born in Sunbury, Pennsylvania on November 7, 1929. Following his service in the United States Navy and various other occupations, he eventually discovered his passion for pottery.

Reitz attended Kutztown State Teachers College and later, the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University. Towards the end of his college years, he chanced upon his interest in working on the potter's wheel. He completed his Bachelor's degree in Art Education from Kutztown in 1957 and later achieved a Master of Fine Arts degree from Alfred University in 1962.

Upon graduation, he began his teaching career at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, taking over ceramics classes. In his early teaching years, he expanded his pottery horizons, moving beyond just crafting functional tableware. During this time, he developed a special interest in salt glaze pottery, a technique that produced a unique brownish, luminous color, and sparkling surface on the ceramics.

In the year 1982, after a severe car accident, he diverted his creative energies to a ceramic series later collectively known as the Sara Period. He continued to create pieces even after suffering a heart attack, alongside several surgeries, with the help of studio assistants.

Reitz passed away on March 19, 2014, at the age of 84. His life and contributions to ceramic art were acknowledged by the New York Times and the American Craft Council. His works are featured in several museums, including the Smithsonian Institution, American Museum of Ceramic Art, and Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.

Learn more about him on his official website.