Tony Smith

Tony Smith is a lifelong maker whose creative journey has included woodworking, home renovation, and vintage camper restoration. A native of Pickens County, South Carolina, Tony came to ceramics later in life after retiring from a 30-year career in the South Carolina’s 2 year college system. He went on to serve as president of a nonprofit organization  before turning his full attention to creative and artistic pursuits.

His journey with clay began at Stonehouse Pottery Studio in Balsam, North Carolina, where he learned under the guidance of owner Ann Suggs and a vibrant community of potters. Today, he continues to create at his own Redhills Studio near Six Mile, South Carolina, where he explores the balance of art and science in clay.

Tony’s work reflects a passion for natural textures and organic forms. He avoids repetition and mass production, focusing instead on one-of-a-kind pieces. Influenced by artist Jan Kolenda of Sticks & Stones Studio, his pottery has an earthy, tactile character. He draws inspiration from East Asian traditions such as Raku and kurinuki and takes special interest in the technical aspects of the craft—firing processes, clay bodies, and glaze chemistry. Tony also participates in three wood firings annually at the Fire Song Anagama Kiln in Pendleton, South Carolina, as part of a collaborative community of potters.