G R O T T O
Contemporary Unglazed

JAN RENTENAAR
Oregon, USA
​2024

7.5 x 9 x 3 inches
​Big White Stoneware Clay, Flashing Slip
Hand Built, Wood and Soda Fired at 2400 F

"Nestled in the crevices of the landscape a tree pushes out from under the ledge seeking the light. The struggle between choice and chance is as old as ceramics, but in a world of computer controlled gas and electric kilns it takes on a new significance. Here we see the “chance” collection of soda forming an otherworldly green jewel. As new technology is developed I believe keeping the element of chance will be important to maintain the abstract elements of art. I find with my work the strongest pieces take the least amount of editing and time due to their strength of image and concept that naturally develops."

- Jan Rentenaar

Photography credit: Ty and Chey Photography

A B O U T   J A N   R E N T E N A A R

I am a native Oregonian and graduated with a BA in Fine Arts from Evergreen State College. In 2023 I received the “Purchase Award” from Tacoma Clay Art at OPA Ceramic Showcase. In 2020 my pot was featured on the cover of the Journal of the American Bonsai Society with an accompanying article.

I have been an artist my entire life and while my main body of work has been sculptural in nature, I began my journey in bonsai over 20 years ago. During this time I have been able to learn from many different people and disciplines that have helped shape my current work.

I have worked closely with Ryan Neil of “Bonsai Mirai,” which has given me valuable insight into the physicality and potential of bonsai containers. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to wood fire with Hiroshi Ogawa for 15 years in Elton, Oregon firing both the noborigama and the anagama kilns. Working with Hiroshi heavily influences the way I engage in the wood firing process and fire my pieces.

In 2023 I received my teaching certificate in Kyoto, Japan from the Ikebana school, “Saga Goryu.” Bonsai and ikebana share the aesthetic of a container that has “no ego.” Being a student of both disciplines gives me insight into the value of the supporting role containers play in bonsai. ​
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Follow Jan Rentenaar on these platforms:
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Website: www.janrentenaar.com/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/janrentenaar/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/jan.rentenaar

T H A N K   Y O U   T O   O U R   S P O N S O R S

D I S C O V E R   P O T T E R S   I S   P R O U D   T O   S P O N S O R   T H E   2 0 2 5   N O R T H   A M E R I C A N   B O N S A I   P O T T E R Y   C O M P E T I T I O N

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