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Matthew Krousey’s ceramic work is inspired by the wildlife and fauna he sees every day around the woods of his Harris home and studio. His signature stoneware pieces use ash glazes as their main ingredient, which comes from the very landscape he draws his inspiration from. Works include practical mugs, trays, jars, and vases. (Perhaps you’ve seen his work at Mill City Farmers Market or have been lucky enough to visit his studio retreat for his fall pottery sale.)
Born and raised in central Minnesota, he is an artist and teacher, but his world experiences have included active duty in Kuwait and Iraq to support Operation Iraqi Freedom as a member of the Minnesota National Guard. He has also taught clay to veterans.
In 2018, he was awarded an Artist Initiative Grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. Krousey muses, “My hope is that the daily use of my pots will be a gentle reminder to the public of the vanishing natural world around us.” His time in the military and dedication to this place we call home reminds us to protect the land and all who live here—from the two-legged to the winged.
Midwest Home features local makers in each issue via The Collective. Find more on midwesthome.com/thecollective. Curated by Jerrod Sumner, founder of Brandtabulous, a Minneapolis-based marketing and brand storytelling agency that specializes in promoting American makers, including the one featured on this page. brandtabulous.com