Hi, I’m Ed ceramic wall art is my thing. I’ve spent over 35 years blending traditional techniques with modern design to create bold, sculptural pieces that go far beyond the wheel. I’m also the founder of Artabys, where I help artists make better work and smarter decisions.
🎨 “I don’t just shape clay I shape conversations about where art is going. If it’s handcrafted and forward-thinking, I’m all in.”
Hey, I’m Ed Shears
Modern Ceramic Artist | Editor & Founder at Artabys | Original Clay Rebel
I’ve spent the past 35+ years knee-deep in clay, carving out a space for modern ceramic wall art that steps far beyond the pottery wheel. My work lives at the intersection of texture, tradition, and innovation where every piece is handbuilt, and every curve tells a story.
I launched Artabys to help other artists find their voice and to shine a spotlight on ceramics as both fine art and function. You’ll find me testing tools, writing how-to’s, sharing studio mishaps (they happen!), and curating exhibitions that elevate the overlooked.
What I’m Known For
- Wall Art That Talks Back – Bold, sculptural ceramic pieces that mix modern design with old-world craftsmanship
- Breaking the Mold – Handbuilding over wheel-throwing, on purpose
- Tech Meets Clay – Championing AI, modern tools, and new voices in the ceramic space
“I don’t just want to teach technique I want folks to feel something when they hang a piece on the wall.”
Highlights from the Studio
- Degree from University of Alabama
- Over 3 decades in the ceramic arts, specializing in wall-hanging decor
- Featured at Greenway Festival, Boro Art Crawl, and local Middle TN galleries
- Contributor to Artvilla & Academia.edu
- Available for purchase at Shop.Artabys.com
Articles You Might Like
- 🔗 Pottery vs. Ceramics: Clearing Up the Mud
- 🔗 Glazing & Firing Basics
- 🔗 Handbuilding vs. Wheel Throwing
My Style & Medium
- Techniques: Handbuilding, Raku, Slip Casting, Glaze Formulation
- Materials: Stoneware, Porcelain, Earthenware, Terra Cotta, Underglazes
- Focus: Wall-mounted forms with expressive texture and layered surface design
Words from the Clay Crew
- “Ed’s hands-on workshops changed how I think about clay.” – Jane, student
- “His curation makes you feel the work before you even read the artist statement.” – Meesh, collaborator
- “His teaching bridges old-school craftsmanship with modern flair.” – David Jackson, Artvilla
Let’s Keep the Clay Moving
Follow my latest on LinkedIn, Instagram, or explore my collection at Shop.Artabys.com.
Art by Ed Shears
Each piece I create is built by hand no wheel, no molds, just clay, vision, and texture. Here’s a selection of my most recent ceramic wall art. Want more? Browse the full collection here →
Let’s keep championing original work in a copy-paste world.
Achievements and Collaborations
- Renowned author and contributor at Academia.edu, enriching the world of ceramic arts with scholarly insights.
- Showcased artwork at Fine Art America since 2015, capturing myriad facets of creativity through photography and ceramics.
- Featured thoughts on pushing ceramic art’s boundaries at Artvilla.com amongst other Famous Ceramic Artists.
- Participant in community events fostering local artists, like the Boro Art Crawl and The Greenway Festival
- “Ed Shears’ mastery in ceramics is evident not only in his exquisite work but also in his ability to impart complex techniques to his students with ease. His dedication to the craft is inspiring.” – David Jackson, Owner of Artvilla.
- “Having collaborated with Ed on several community projects, I can attest to his skillful artistry and profound impact on the local art scene. His commitment to sustainability in art is particularly commendable.” – Meesh Switch, Director PeabasDesign Arts Council.
- “The Murfreesboroweb Art Association recognizes Ed Shears for his outstanding contributions to ceramic arts education. His innovative techniques and dedication to his students’ growth set a standard in the field.” – David Jackson, President, Murfreesboroweb Art Association.
Visit & Explore: I invite art enthusiasts, fellow artists, and connoisseurs to explore my diverse range at Artabys and experience the amalgamation of tradition and innovation that defines my work. Each piece tells a story, waiting to be a part of your cherished collection.
Thank you for considering my artworks to adorn your homes and offices. Together, let’s celebrate the beauty of originality and the charm of ceramics.
Ed Shears artist at work
Awards and Recognitions
- Academia.edu Scholarly Contributor: Recognized for enriching the world of ceramic arts with scholarly insights on Roman Ceramics.
- Fine Art America Featured Artist: Showcased artwork since 2015, capturing myriad facets of creativity through photography and ceramics.
- Boro Art Crawl Participant: Honored for contributions to community events fostering local artists in Middle Tennessee.
- The Greenway Festival Artist: Awarded for exceptional ceramic wall art contributions to the annual Greenway Festival.
- University of Alabama at Birmingham Alumni: Recognized for outstanding achievements.
- Middle Tennessee Local Artist Award: Acknowledged for contributions to various local events and galleries across Middle Tennessee.
- Artvilla.com Featured Ceramic Artist: Highlighted for pushing the boundaries of ceramic art amongst other famous ceramic artists.
Group Exhibitions
- SaleforArt.com: 2022 Friendship Ceramic Competition Award
- ClarksvilleWeb.com: 2021 Ceramic Design Artist Award
- ArtForOriginal.com: 2019 Ceramic Originality Exhibition Winner
- Murfreesboronet.com: 2016 Ceramic Competition Winner
- Artvilla.com: 2015 Ceramic Artist of the Year
- Artvilla.com 2011 Ceramic Artist of the Year
- Motherbird.com: 2003 Ceramic Artist of the Year
- PebasDesign.com: 2001 Ceramic Design Artist Award for Originality in Design
Client Testimonials
“A Master of Ceramic Artistry”
“Ed’s ceramic wall art has transformed my living space into a sanctuary of beauty and inspiration. His attention to detail is unparalleled.”
– Sarah Williams, Interior Designer
“Innovative and Unique”
“I’ve never seen anything like Ed’s work before. The way he blends traditional pottery techniques with modern art is truly groundbreaking.”
– Summer Breeze of Motherbird Books in Silver City New Mexico, Art Collector
“A True Craftsman”
“Ed’s pieces are not just art; they are a testament to craftsmanship. The quality of his work is evident in every curve and color.”
– Meesh Switch, Fellow Ceramic Artist
“More Than Just Art”
“Owning a piece by Ed Shears is like owning a piece of history. His work is a beautiful amalgamation of tradition and innovation.”
– David Jackson, Gallery Owner
“A Visual Feast”
“Ed’s ceramic wall art is a visual feast. The colors, the textures, and the designs are all so captivating. I can’t help but stare.”
– Karen White, Art Enthusiast
“Exquisite Detailing”
“The meticulous attention to detail in Ed’s work is astounding. Each piece tells its own unique story.”
– Lisa Brown, Art Critic