Ming Yuen-Schat
Norfolk, Virginia

Born in Taiwan and currently residing in Norfolk, Ming Yuen-Schat holds Masters's degrees in architecture from MIT and in ceramics and architecture design from Massachusetts College of Art.  Searching for the tension between quietness and dynamic fluidity in the interplay of forms and surfaces is a process of deconstruction for him. Challenging Western distinctions between functional and fine art and redefining function according to essence: what is essential?  Using a variety of techniques, Ming creates his work by hand, connecting with the earth. He wood fires multiple times to layer glazes and effects in collaborative alchemy with the fire, smoke, and ash that reveals the character and spirit of the clay.