Daniel Rhodes
Daniel Rhodes (May 8, 1911 – July 23, 1989) was an American artist renowned for his contributions as a ceramic artist, muralist, sculptor, author, and educator. Over his 25-year tenure (1947–1973) at the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University, he established an international reputation in the field of studio pottery.
Early Life and Education
Rhodes was born in Fort Dodge, Iowa, to Daniel J. and Margaret Agnes (née Brennan) Rhodes. He began his art career by enrolling in summer courses at the Art Institute of Chicago. He attended the University of Chicago from 1929 to 1933, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Art History.
Career Beginnings
From 1935 to 1938, Rhodes lived in Fort Dodge, where he worked as a painter and muralist. He participated in the Fort Dodge Art Guild and lectured at the Blanden Art Gallery, now known as the Blanden Memorial Art Museum. During this period, he frequently exhibited at the Iowa State Fair, winning three consecutive annual sweepstakes awards for oil painting from 1938 to 1940, surpassing a record held by Grant Wood.
Advanced Studies and Teaching
In 1940, Rhodes studied at the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, where he began working with clay. He then entered the graduate program at the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University, becoming the first person to graduate from the school's Master of Fine Arts program in 1942. After completing his MFA, Rhodes worked as a designer for Glidden Pottery.
Professional Achievements
During his time at Alfred University, Rhodes built a significant reputation as a potter and sculptor. He authored several influential books on ceramics techniques, making him a well-known figure among studio potters and ceramic sculptors. His works have been exhibited internationally, and he has been recognized for his contributions to the field of ceramics.
Later Life and Legacy
Rhodes continued to influence the art world until his death in 1989. In 2020, artist Kari Marboe created a tribute work and exhibition for Rhodes at Mills College titled "Kari Marboe: Duplicating Daniel." His legacy lives on through his numerous publications and the many students he mentored during his career.