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Pottery has been a lifelong passion, with moments of deep fulfillment achieved through creating beautiful objects. Along the way, I have made a strong connection to clay, finding excitement in its malleability, forgiveness, and the final firing process that transforms everything. I see with my hands. Weight, balance, texture, even the foot of a pot are in intrinsic part of pottery’s sensuality, and of my emotional response. Creating a beautiful object is immensely rewarding.
I am Inspired by traditional functional pottery, Asian glazes, and the stories told by functional pottery and ceremonial vessels. My artistic focus emphasizes the tactile and functional aspects of pottery, aiming to create cherished pieces for everyday use.
While I still love to make functional porcelain ware my style also includes exploration of more abstract, sculptural forms.
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Daniel Vito, a potter since 1972, began his journey at the Manchester Craftsman in Pittsburgh under the guidance of Bill Strickland. Between 1972 and 1985, he honed his craft, creating functional pottery, selling his work at art festivals and wholesale markets. In 1980, he seized an opportunity by purchasing a commercial building and transforming it into a gallery space and a large production studio. In 1986, he made a bold move by leaving his teaching job to pursue pottery full-time.
In 1987, Daniel married Donna Hetrick, and together they founded Fireborn Studios. As full-time potters, they continued to participate in retail shows and wholesale markets but eventually shifted their focus to gallery sales and classes at Fireborn. As of 2024 Daniel Vito and Donna Hetrick still full-time potters. They sell exclusively at Fireborn Gallery.
Daniel has traveled extensively, visited potters and museums on 4 continents and studied in China. He is a member of the Associated Artists of Pittsburgh and the Pittsburgh Society of Artists, and a former president of the Craftsmen’s Guild of Pittsburgh, In 2023 Daniel incorporated Clay Pittsburgh, and secured its status as a nonprofit.
