Cliff Lee 21st Century Master

Cliff Lee combines the tradition of historic Chinese ceramics with his own contemporary design aesthetic. The refined vessels he creates are the product of a keen eye and an
inquisitive mind. His respect for the achievements of his ceramic forbearers is evident in his ongoing efforts to develop new glazes that respond to classic Chinese clay
surfaces. Some of these glazes have been lost for centuries and Lee has introduced these after considerable research and experimentation. Going beyond mere recreation,
Lee adds visual elements that distinguish his work as contemporary and individual. In these precise porcelain pieces, he attenuates the shapes of his vessels and carves
forms. He also assembles increasingly complex and unusual plant, floral, and vegetative components as additions to the surfaces of some of his works. While referring to historic
pieces, Lee’s resulting combinations of glaze and form are clearly the product of a 21st-century master. His intense gaze and deft hand also infuse Lee’s ceramics with a spirituality that is palpable and astounding.
Bruce W. Pepich, Executive Director and Curator of Collections
Racine Art Museum, Racine, Wisconsin