Ralph Bacerra

United States, 1938–2008

Place of BirthGarden Grove, California, United States

BiographyRalph Bacerra has influenced the field of contemporary ceramics both as an artist and as a teacher. He studied at Chouinard Art Institute under Vivika Heino, and later he took over her position and headed the ceramic department from 1963 to 1971. He also taught at the Otis Art Institute and was head of their ceramic department from 1983 to 1997. In addition to his long and influential teaching career, he is known for his development and use of new technologies, including heating through electromagnetic induction, and complicated surface treatments.
Education: B.F.A., Chouinard Art School, 1961