Stuart Gair received a history degree from Ohio University and completed an MFA from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Gair has spent time making work and teaching at the Archie Bray Foundation (Helena, MT), Harvard University (Cambridge, MA) as well as Colorado Mountain College (Aspen, CO). Currently, Stuart lives and works as a full time studio artist in Athens, OH, an area rich in clay and ceramic history, where he is exploring alternative ways of firing the soda kiln. The geometric forms he creates are driven by form, function, utility, subtlety, and discovery. Gair hopes that each piece is used and enjoyed whether displayed on a table or in the hands of the user. 
Artist Statement
The pots I make are rooted in my investigation of historical objects, architecture, function, form and fire. Particular attention is given to clean and uninterrupted lines and shapes that contribute to a vessel that may have a quiet yet strong presence when standing alone and also accentuate food or flowers when in use. A pairing of locally dug clays and soda firing techniques creates dark, dry, crater-like surfaces full of depth and subtlety which encourage further examination. Barriers are used within the kiln to shield areas of the surface where a bright pop of color is desired.
As a student of History, I’m drawn to forms that have endured through time. Creating a new form provides an opportunity to explore these interests through the subtleties of detail, volume, silhouette and geometry that ultimately gives insight into a larger historical context. A current examination of early Native American culture has brought a focus to my work where form closely follows function and adornment is stripped away and paired down to the true essence of the objects purpose.