David Shaner (1934 - 2002)

Shaner was born in Pennsylvania, received his bachelor of arts at Kutztown State College and masters at New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University. His tenure as a teacher included Alfred University, the University of Illinois, the Archie Bray Foundation, and many workshops. Shaner received two National Endowment for the Arts Fellowships, and the Montana Governor's Award for the Arts in 1989. From the late 50's till his death, David pursued his career in the ceramic field with a devotion to the medium and natural world where he was clearly inspired. Early on, glazes were a large part of his focus, beginning with functional ceramics. Anything from covered jars to casseroles wore the palette of "Shaner's Red and Gold Glazes" that brought him notoriety. David's works from 1980 to his death showcased chimney pots, rock forms and pillow pots. The majority of his latter work was fired in a wood kiln bearing the history of fire on their surfaces. Subtle colorations unique to this process enhanced the artist's strong three-dimensional sensibilities.
He was a great human being, and first-rate ceramicist, who oversaw the Archie Bray Foundation near Helena through it's darkest times to it's permanent re-establishment as Montana's greatest ceramic arts institution.