James and Nan McKinnell

James and Nan McKinnell
by Thomas Turnquist
Pottery collectors view the work of James and Nan McKinnell as an important part of
of America's ceramic art history over the past fifty years. The McKinnells high standing
among collectors is based upon three major areas of contribution. First, the work producd
by Jim and Nan has been consisent and strong during their long partnership. The work has
always exhibited a near perfect balance of artist and artisan. The second major area
of contribution was teaching and ceramic education. The legacy and knowledge bestowed
by the McKinnells is nothing short of amazing. They have been a vital part of the diversity
and richness that pemeated ceramic education from the 1950s through the late1980s. Third,
the McKinnells provided the the ceramic commumity with improvements in kiln design. In
1950s they constucted soft-brick kilns. The were multi-chambered with the unique
advantage of being portable because the bricks were not joined by mortor. Jim and Nan,
in addition to kiln design, completed much reach om glazes and clay bodies.
　
The McKinnells are viewed by collectors and ceramic historians as major catalysts in
American clay. They, with such ceramic giants like the Heinos, the Scheiers, Glen Lukens,
and Harding Black have built the foundation for ceramic arts and hastened the acceptance
of clay as an art form by the art community.

Jim and Nan McKinnell provided to the collector work that was well designed, well thought
through, beautiful, and reflected their huge respect for the medium. They made many
strides forward, and each stride was accomplished with grace and dignity. Jim passed
away. Nan resides in Fort Collins Colorado.
　
PS
Jim McKinnell was my best man when Denise and I married. He will always be the "Best" man.