Randy McClelland is a skilled ceramic artist whose work is deeply influenced by his Japanese-American heritage and a profound respect for tradition and utility. Born to a Japanese mother and an American father, McClelland’s art reflects a harmonious blend of these cultural influences, integrating Japanese values and aesthetics with the functional beauty found in classic American stoneware. His connection to his heritage is evident in his meticulous attention to detail and the use of traditional woodfiring techniques. McClelland’s early introduction to ceramic art began at the American School in Japan, where, between 1986 and 1989, he studied under Ki Nomori.
McClelland’s clay practice is based in Naselle, Washington, where he creates unique pieces that combine local materials with his deep knowledge of the woodfiring process. His work, characterized by its organic textures and subtle forms, is shaped by years of experience firing anagama kilns—a technique he honed through decades of collaboration with master potters like Richard Rowland and Hiroshi Ogawa. Over the course of his career, McClelland has participated in over 50 anagama firings, gaining thousands of hours of hands-on experience.
In addition to his personal practice, McClelland has made significant contributions to the arts in his community. He has served as a project manager for major art installations in healthcare settings, notably commissioning work from regional artists for the Columbia Memorial Hospital-OHSU Knight Cancer Collaborative. His dedication to these projects earned him the Columbia Memorial Hospital President’s Award.
McClelland’s work has been exhibited in numerous solo and group exhibitions across Oregon, including at the RiverSea Gallery, Cannon Beach Art Gallery, and the Hoffman Center for the Arts. His solo exhibitions, such as the recent “Hafu Potter” and “Tribute to Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month,” highlight his unique voice as an artist who bridges cultures and traditions.
As a committed community artist, McClelland has been involved in various volunteer projects, including creating hundreds of ceramic bowls for local benefit events and crafting coffee cups for cancer patients. His volunteer work culminated in the creation of a large ceramic mural, designed by Richard Rowland, for the Healing Garden at the Knight Cancer Collaborative, further underscoring McClelland’s belief in the power of art to heal and bring people together.
McClelland holds a B.S. in Integrative Studies from Eastern Oregon University and has pursued specialized ceramics education at Clatsop Community College. His work continues to evolve as he explores new possibilities in clay while remaining rooted in the traditions that have shaped his artistic journey.
