Mary Scheier

Early Life and Background

Mary Goldsmith was born on May 9, 1908, in Salem, Virginia. The youngest of five children, Scheier was raised in a nurturing environment that encouraged creativity. After graduating from high school, she pursued studies at the New York School of Fine and Applied Art in New York City, where she was exposed to various forms of artistic expression, laying the groundwork for her future career.

Career Beginnings and Development

Mary’s entry into ceramics began when she met her future husband, Edwin Scheier, and the two soon married in 1937. They began traveling and selling their pottery at craft fairs across the United States. Mary primarily focused on forming and glazing small decorative bowls and functional tableware, showcasing her impressive craftsmanship and eye for design.

Major Works, Discoveries, or Accomplishments

In 1940, the Scheiers accepted a teaching post at the University of New Hampshire. During their tenure, they mentored many students and significantly contributed to the university's arts program. Mary’s work stood out for its delicate yet robust designs, often inspired by a mix of European pottery and American folk traditions. The couple's collaboration resulted in an evolving body of work that was celebrated nationally.

Awards, Honors, and Recognition

Mary Scheier’s contributions to ceramics earned her significant accolades, including exhibitions at prestigious institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York. She received the Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999 from the New Hampshire Art Association, recognizing her impact on the field of ceramics.

Personal Life

Mary and Edwin’s personal and professional relationships were intertwined, forming a partnership that spanned several decades. They were known for their joint creative processes, which continually pushed the boundaries of traditional ceramic arts. Together, they maintained a harmonious balance between function and artistic expression in their work.

Legacy and Historical Impact

Mary Scheier left an indelible mark on American ceramics. Her dedication to craftsmanship and the seamless blend of form and function set her work apart. Her influence is felt in the numerous students she mentored and the timeless pieces that continue to be celebrated in art collections worldwide.

Later Life and Death

Upon retiring in the 1960s, Mary and Edwin moved to Green Valley, Arizona, where they continued to create pottery until their later years. Mary Scheier passed away on May 14, 2007, in Green Valley at the age of 99. She is remembered as one of the pioneering figures in American ceramics, with a legacy that continues to inspire artists today.