Made in St. Louis: Ceramic art pieces tell a story

Each piece of artwork Jerry Williams creates discloses itself to viewers by degrees. From the smallest pinch pot to large sculptures, what is hidden is revealed on close inspection. A small vase winks and refracts the ground glass he pools over a glaze through the small opening at the top. An eagle’s wing uncovers scenes from an ancestor’s history. Turn over any piece to unearth a second artwork, equally compelling, layered and mysterious
Encourage and strengthen • “Jerry gives back in so many ways, not only to students at the college, but to the community; he has an open heart,” Lea says. “I’m a very private person,” Jerry says, “but I’m hoping people read this and understand that we all deal with our past. The college is very important to me. When I see students who are angry or unhappy, I invite them in to talk. We don’t know each others’ histories, so I don’t judge.”
J. C. Williams Fine Arts

Makers • Jerry C. Williams Sr. and Lea Ann Nall-Williams

Family • Jerry and Lea are married. They live with one dog, Lucky Ned Peppers. Their blended families include five children and eight grandchildren.
Home • Hillsboro
What they do • Jerry uses his skills in painting, drawing, carving and mark making in his functional and sculptural ceramic art pieces. His unique signatures on the foot of each piece are also artworks. Lea acts as manager for her husband, coordinating gallery connections, sales, social media and business interactions.
Where to buy • The Green Door Art Gallery, 21 N. GoreAve., Webster Groves, MO 63119 and Mississippi Mud, Alton. Twice a year, around Mother’s Day and Christmas, they sell at the Jefferson College Pottery Sales of student work in Hillsboro.

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