The work of David Drake, or “Dave the Potter,” commands eye-popping prices at art auctions. Drake (c. 1801-1870) was a formerly enslaved Black American ceramicist who would become one of the most famous names in Edgefield pottery. He signed his own pots and sometimes inscribed them with a poem, defying the strict anti-literacy laws of the time. 

Contemporary ceramicists are continuing a long legacy of Black Americans working in clay, and finding new ways to tell their stories. This audio version of the Craftsmanship story, “Black Artists Are Reshaping How We Think About American Ceramics,” was written by Ruth Terry and narrated by Chinwe Oniah. 

This is the Craftsmanship podcast, a series about the artisans, makers, and innovators who are creating a world built to last. It is hosted and produced by Pauline Bartolone. Craftsmanship's managing editor is Laurie Weed. Todd Oppenheimer is the founding editor and executive director. 

Theme music is from Blue Dot sessions.

Cover photo: Chotsani Elaine Dean, artist and Assistant Professor of Ceramics at the University of Minnesota.

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