biographie de George E. OHR (1857-1918)

Birth place: Biloxi, MS

Death place: Biloxi

Addresses: New Orleans, active 1879-90

Profession: Art craftsman, ceramicist

Studied: Joseph Meyer, c.1879

Exhibited: World's Indust. & Cotton Expo, 1884-85 (medal); Cotton Expo, Atlanta, GA, 1895;Louisiana Purchase Expo, 1904 (med., most original art pottery)

Work: Smithsonian Inst., Washington, DC; MMA; LACMA.

Comments: Among the most important art ceramicists of the 19th century in the U.S. He had a flamboyant personality and was noted for works of sinuous form. After his apprenticeship with Joseph Meyer, he traveled for two years and upon his return set up the "Biloxi Art Pottery," 1883. In 1886 he and Joseph Meyer set up the "New Orleans Art Pottery Co." which lasted until 1890. After a fire in his Biloxi pottery his work changed in form and glazing technique.He was hired to work at the Newcomb Art School c.1896. At the time of his death over 6000 pieces from his mature career remained stored in his family's warehouse. His work gained new recognition toward the end of the 20th century. The George E. Ohr Art and Cultural Center was opened in 1994 in Biloxi, Mississippi and will move to a new museum complex in 2004.

Sources: Encyclopaedia of New Orleans Artists, 286-87. More recently, see: Moonan, Wendy,"Recognition For Biloxi's Mad Potter," New York Times, July 20, 2001.