Michael Bishop Ceramics

Michael Bishop is a native Utahn who has spent most of his life in the southern part of the state. He was first introduced to ceramics in high school, where he learned the fundamentals from Shane Christensen.

He went on to study clay at Dixie State University (now Utah Tech University), working under Glen Blakely, Heath Papa, and Shane Christensen, and earned his undergraduate degree in 3D Sculpture and Ceramics. After graduating, Michael and his wife moved to Girard, Pennsylvania, where he pursued graduate studies at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. He received his MFA in 2020, studying with Chuck Johnson and Lee Rexroad.

Following graduate school, Michael returned to Utah, where he began teaching wood firing, ceramics, and 3D courses at Utah Tech in the evenings while also teaching ceramics at a local high school. He currently resides in a small town just north of St. George, where he teaches high school during the day and manages a small 8-acre farm.

Michael's work is rooted in a functional studio practice. His pottery reflects his connection to farming, hunting, fishing, and the natural environment. His surfaces range from cone 10 reduction to atmospheric firing methods, including wood and soda firing.

“My work is made to be used—created as a daily companion, whether in the truck or out pitching hay. Just use it.”

“Thank you for supporting my work. I hope it brings a bit of happiness into your day every time you open the cupboard.”
—Michael