Donald S. Ray - Potter, Designer & Trillium Arts Sponsored Artist

Meet The Artist:

Donald Ray demonstrates his technique for painting new pottery designs with his mouth.

As part of Trillium’s commitment to inclusion and access for all artists, we are honored to partner with pottery artist Donald  Scott Ray as part of our Fiscally Sponsored Artist Program.

After a diving accident in ‘92, Boone, NC artist Donald Scott Ray started painting pottery with his mouth. Later, he added tableware design and graphic art to round out his artistic offerings. Donald uses a paintbrush, mouth stick, and an iPad to create a variety of works. His primary works include mouth-painted pottery, functional tableware and landscape prints inspired by the High Country of Western North Carolina.

In order to distinguish his variety of approaches in a growing body of work, Donald has expanded his endeavors to three lines. Moving forward, “Painted by Mouth” will feature all mouth-painted stoneware works as well as mouth-stick paintings and graphic designs. “HOME” will feature Donald’s new tableware designs and perennial favorites, all in stoneware. Finally, “Epicuriart” will feature one of a kind works of functional fine art crafted in stoneware clay.

New Designs for 2024: Painted by Mouth 9 Inch Stoneware Brie Warmer with Bamboo Trivet

In Donald’s Words:

“I have enjoyed working with Heather and Phil since 2020. With the support of Trillium, I have more opportunities to display my work, reach a larger audience and explore a variety of media. Although my goals have changed along the way, they have always supported my “artistic modifications”. Thanks guys!

Currently, I am thriving through my artwork. I thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to display and sell works at local festivals and art shows. Interacting with the public is perhaps the best part. Their reaction to my offerings is both humbling and exhilarating at the same time.

I continue to collaborate with Mr. Eric Riechard. While we are still producing perennial favorites, I’m enjoying the challenge of designing new pottery pieces for the home that are functional, fresh, and stand the test of time. I also continue to paint selected pieces of stoneware with my mouth.

Additionally, I’ve enjoyed tremendous feedback on my canvas prints and mugs. Largely inspired by the Blue Ridge Mountains and all of the wildlife therein, my canvas are a snapshot of the environment where I play and find solace.

I’m excited to share some fresh photos of recent works and am ready for an inspired and creative 2024. For additional information, to purchase artwork or to help purchase art supplies, please contact Trillium.

Thank you for your interest.” DS Ray

Support Donald’s Artistry:

If you would like to make a contribution to help purchase new supplies and support expenses related to Donald’s gallery exhibitions, please make a tax deductible donation HERE

Schedule:

To keep up to date with Donald’s festival event schedule and view his latest designs as they become available, visit @ Donald Scott Ray on Facebook.

About Fiscal Sponsorship:

Trillium Arts can provide 1-2 artists per year with Fiscal Sponsorship services. Learn more here.