Zak Helenske

Helenske’s approach to the genre of functional ceramics is both a response to its ancient history as well as a construction of his own sensibilities. His aim is to make objects that operate on a human scale as beautiful, thoughtful, and appropriate technologies for our living spaces and daily activities.

Clay pots are Helenske’s canvas – He uses their surface to investigate line, form, history, structure and pattern. He hopes to create a balanced object; finding in its form proportion, profile, and mass and in its surface depth, dimension, and composition.

Originally from Fargo, ND, Zak Helenske received a BFA in Ceramics at North Dakota State University where he focused on functional ceramics. He received his MFA in Ceramics and Ceramic Sculpture at RIT.  Helenske lives and works in Seattle, WA maintaining a full-time studio practice with his partner, artist Mya Kerner. In 2017 he was named an Emerging Artist by Ceramics Monthly.