Ross De La Garza
Ross De La Garza is a seventh-generation Texan who grew up along the Gulf Coast in Corpus Christi. He spent much of his time on the beaches of Padre Island and in the gulf waters. This provided the inspiration for his fish theme. Ross graduated from the University of Texas in Austin with a degree in geology in 1986, however, he realized that his passion lay in literature and art.
While in post-graduate studies, Ross took a class in ceramics which he found he greatly enjoyed. Under the influence of Billy Ray Mangham and the Potters' Guild at the Laguna Gloria Art Museum, the seed was planted for what is being created today. Austin's rich artisan community provides a fertile network and the foundation for Primordial Persuasions.
After early experiences working with galleries, Ross has come to realize that he prefers to market his artwork directly to the public through various art festivals around the country, predominantly in the Southwest. Ross also opens his studio to guests for viewing and sales.
Ross' signature fish (individually named and cataloged) evolved over much time through trial and error. He developed a unique technique of combining different types of clay in the low firing process. The primordial experience of working with clay awoke an innate sensibility that took the form of fish and serpents, to vessels and teapots. All of these created in a timeless motif reinvented with a contemporary twist. The whimsical characters and classic vessels reflect an inner harmony that Ross is able to project into each distinct piece.
Ross has taught the art of Raku in various workshops in the community and in schools and has some of his work displayed in the downtown Austin Marriott Hotel, the Horseshoe Casino in Shreveport, LA, as well as many private collections. Ross has also been recognized by national juried festivals which include the Brazos River Festival, the Rockport Art Festival, and twice by the Tempe Arizona Mill Art Festival.
While in post-graduate studies, Ross took a class in ceramics which he found he greatly enjoyed. Under the influence of Billy Ray Mangham and the Potters' Guild at the Laguna Gloria Art Museum, the seed was planted for what is being created today. Austin's rich artisan community provides a fertile network and the foundation for Primordial Persuasions.
After early experiences working with galleries, Ross has come to realize that he prefers to market his artwork directly to the public through various art festivals around the country, predominantly in the Southwest. Ross also opens his studio to guests for viewing and sales.
Ross' signature fish (individually named and cataloged) evolved over much time through trial and error. He developed a unique technique of combining different types of clay in the low firing process. The primordial experience of working with clay awoke an innate sensibility that took the form of fish and serpents, to vessels and teapots. All of these created in a timeless motif reinvented with a contemporary twist. The whimsical characters and classic vessels reflect an inner harmony that Ross is able to project into each distinct piece.
Ross has taught the art of Raku in various workshops in the community and in schools and has some of his work displayed in the downtown Austin Marriott Hotel, the Horseshoe Casino in Shreveport, LA, as well as many private collections. Ross has also been recognized by national juried festivals which include the Brazos River Festival, the Rockport Art Festival, and twice by the Tempe Arizona Mill Art Festival.