Eric O'Leary
b. 1949
Person Type(not assigned)
BiographyEric O'Leary is an internationally acclaimed ceramic artist and designer. Trained in the tradition by his father, master craftsman Jack O'Leary, he has worked in ceramics for more than 45 years. Drawing upon many sources of inspiration especially traditional Japanese and Mexican forms, O'Leary's vision of innovative integrative design features ceramic elements in relation to other materials. O'Leary and his family have a long and deep connection to Mexican pottery and culture. He has traveled to Mexico for more than 20 years and his relationship to this region of the world is an important source of inspiration for his current sculptural work. O'Leary is involved in two projects based in Mexico that focus on sustaining traditional culture and pottery. For the last seven years O'Leary has also served as the senior technical ceramics consultant for the nonprofit organization Aid to Arisans. Aid to Artisans works internationally to develop economic opportunities for craftspeople in developing nations.