Michael Ezzell
Michael was born in Harlingen, Texas in 1950, but spent much of his early childhood abroad, influenced by both his southern Texas roots and European culture. At twelve, his family settled in Corona del Mar, where he discovered the California surf scene and the flourishing art movement that surrounded it.
In college, Michael studied ceramics under Professor William Payne, sparking a passion that would take him around the world. His journey began in Denmark, working at Yacht Pottery on the island of Bornholm, a historic workshop known for its handcrafted stoneware and porcelain. From there, he traveled widely, immersing himself in art history and creative traditions. His path eventually led him to a teaching position at David Greene Pottery in Exeter, Devon, England.
When Michael returned to California, he joined a circle of emerging artists and soon opened his own studio in Laguna Beach. Decades later, he's still creating there—continuing to explore, teach, and share his love of art with his community.
I find joy in exploring and refining technique—it's through this study that a vision begins to take shape. I'm drawn to the process itself: the challenge of problem-solving, the play between different forms and textures, the dialogue of curved lines against straight edges, and smooth surfaces against the rough. Wherever art has journeyed before me, I try to bring my own interpretation. In the end, I see myself simply as a tool—one more building block in the ongoing story of art.
