It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Warren MacKenzie a great friend, potter
and teacher February 16, 1924 –December 31, 2018. He is memorable for his staunch belief in
the power of functional pottery and the mingei aesthetic (that the lowest is the highest) that
informed his work.
Warren found his own language in functional pots made quickly and easily. In doing so, he
looked for the simplest way—which he achieved with the most brilliant abstraction. He made
pots to be used and priced them accordingly. In recent years, his works are getting the respect his deserved as a master.
Also noteworthy is Warren’s ability as a teacher—fostering so many potters that Minnesota
became known as the clay state of Mingeisota. As a professor at the University of Minnesota
he taught his students to think for themselves; thus, the work of each of him major students is
different.
Warren, we will miss you because your imprint is so strong. Yet we will be inspired to live our
lives with purpose as you did. Thank you!
