Adam Nielsen, a ceramic artist based in Okoboji, Iowa, began his journey in ceramics in 2006. In 2008, he enrolled at Kirkwood Community College, where he first explored raku firing during his initial semesters. His growing passion for ceramics led him to work extensively with wood kilns, deepening his understanding of atmospheric firings.
In 2011, Adam attended the National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts (NCECA) conference, where a panel discussion on converting electric kilns to gas sparked a new direction in his work. After a multi-year hiatus from ceramics, he returned with renewed focus, converting his first electric kiln to gas and experimenting primarily with shino glazes.
In 2018, Adam held his first solo exhibition at the Pearson Lakes Art Center, showcasing work fired in his converted kilns. Two years later, in 2020, he rebuilt his kiln and began refining his firing techniques.
In 2023, Adam collaborated with fellow ceramic artist Ben Roti on a joint exhibition in Okoboji. The partnership included travel between studios and the conversion of another electric kiln. Together, they explored both cone 10 soda and cone 3 soda firings, resulting in a dynamic and varied body of collaborative work.
Adam’s ceramics practice is rooted in experimentation, transformation, and a deep appreciation for the nuances of atmospheric firing.
