French Coachliners

/

From the turn of the 20th century to the 1950’s, French coachbuilders such as Figoni, Chapron and Saoutchik designed some of the most elegant automobile bodies for chassis built by Delahaye, Bugatti, Hispano Suiza and Delage, the most distinguished car companies in France. The coachwork was dazzling, combining the sculptural elements of speed, aerodynamics, graceful profiles, decorative art, and expert workmanship. When I saw this Delahaye at a French car Museum in California, I “oooooed” and “ahhhed” over the exaggerated fenders. I imagined joining those shapes together to make jar forms that would hopefully have a strong presence in space.

/ /

Deborah Schwartzkopf

As a studio artist, she makes fabulous tableware that infuses life with purposeful beauty. Deb was inspired by the guidance of amazing mentors along the way. These important relationships fostered her desire to engage and build community through clay. Her adventurous spirit has taken her across the country and beyond to form a depth of experience, knowledge, and a supportive network.

In 2013 Deb established Rat City Studios in her hometown of Seattle, WA. RCS is her home and personal studio, as well as, a creative space for multiple studio members working independently. In 2022 she opened a sister studio, Rain City Clay in West Seattle. RCC is a community art center focusing on experiential learning through ceramics classes of all levels.

With over 15 years of experience, a Master’s of Fine Art at Penn State, artwork included in collections such as the Kamm Teapot Foundation, San Angelo Museum, and the WA State Arts Collection, numerous publications including Ceramic Monthly, Pottery Making Illustrated, and Studio Potter Magazine, she has been recognized and honored in her career as a maker.