Biography
Frederick Bartolovic, Professor and Coordinator of Ceramics, teaches foundations courses and beginning thru advanced level ceramics courses within the School of Art & Design. In 2016, he co-authored the 4th edition of Electric Kiln Ceramics with artist Richard Zakin. He received his MFA from the Rhode Island School of Design in 2006 and his BFA from the University of Arizona in 1996. Prior to graduate school, Frederick was was involved in the industrial side of ceramics as Vice President of a handmade tile company. This gave him unique insight into techniques and processes utilized by industry which he has applied to his artistic practice. Frederick has exhibited in over 50 group exhibitions and has had 5 solo exhibitions in his years as a ceramic artist. His work has been featured in several articles and books, and he currently co-owns a functional ceramics business called Silver Run Ceramics which exhibits work in nationally recognized ceramics galleries. In 2017, Silver Run Ceramics was awarded an emerging artist award from the Kentucky Arts Council.
In designing my academic courses, I strike a balance between training students in the technical and mechanical aspects of a medium and opening them up to the theoretical and conceptual possibilities of art as object and experience, process and product. I have found that maintaining this dual focus, though difficult, creates a dynamic classroom where the quality of craftsmanship and exploration of ideas are equally important. Academia and the art world have a profound link to each other, now more than ever. For this reason, I posit that success in the classroom is only possible with the continued development of my own artistic career. My professional and artistic endeavors involve me in academic research, travel, and copious studio time. Only through this personal investment can I be a successful mentor to others.