October at Sutter Creek Gallery: Potter Marcus Tikotsky

Artistic or functional, potter Marcus Tikotsky can do it all.  He creates decorative vases, urns, and raku vessels as well as sets of mixing bowls, coffee mugs and candy dishes.  Tikotsky and his unique collection will be featured in October at Sutter Creek Gallery.

While attending high school, Tikotsky was introduced to ceramics which became an outlet for creativity and expression as well as a lifetime passion.  “I enjoy making functional pottery and pay close attention to form, fit, and function, striving for balance and beauty in simple forms and shapes. I focus on the little details that most might not notice, always aiming for perfection.”  He has also found great joy in the expressive and creative process called raku, developed by the Japanese around 1600 BC.  Modern American raku differs although the basic firing process is similar. American raku uses a variety of vibrant glazes applied to traditional and altered forms. Here again, Tikotsky strives for simplicity using minimal visual elements.  Rather than attempting to impose a specific statement, he wants the observer to provide his or her own interpretation and emotional connection with the pottery.

Tikotsky earned a Bachelor of Art from Sonoma State University. Over the years he has taught recreational pottery while serving in the United States Air Force and through a local community recreational facility. Currently, he volunteers four days a week at the pottery studio located at Chabot Community College in Hayward. He provides background support, managing and maintaining such areas as the chemical and glaze rooms, loading and firing the cone 10 gas kiln and assisting students in the development of their throwing skills.

Sutter Creek Gallery invites you to meet Marcus Tikotsky at his reception on Saturday, October 6, starting at 2 p.m., and to view his ceramic creations.  Twenty-five artists exhibit at the cooperative located in the heart of Sutter Creek at 35 Main Street.  The gallery offers original paintings, photographs, fiber and glass art, gourds, jewelry, prints and cards.  Framing is also available.

The gallery is open Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.  For additional information, call 209-267-0228, email suttercreekgallery@gmail.com, or visit www.suttercreekgallery.com.