Kenneth Ferguson

American, (1928–2004)

Although he sometimes referred to himself as “a humble country potter,” Ken Ferguson has been honored as much for his teaching as for his vessels. In 1981 he was voted one of the twelve greatest living potters in a readers’ survey by Ceramics Monthly magazine. He studied at the American Academy of Art in Chicago and the Carnegie Institute of Technology in Pittsburgh, where he received his BFA in painting. In 1958 he earned his MFA in ceramics from Alfred University, New York. Ferguson taught at various institutions, including the Archie Bray Foundation in Helena, Montana, and Alfred University. Beginning in 1964, he headed the ceramics department at the Kansas City Art Institute, until retiring as professor emeritus in 1996. During his career he taught a remarkable succession of students who have themselves become notable artists and teachers. In addition to his work as an educator, Ferguson had an active exhibition career.