Camp Director

Philip Adams

Local Hudson Valley ceramic artist and educator who is captivated by clay’s tactility, materiality, and symmetry found in both the ceramic process and the natural world. He has instructed both university students and children in a variety of learning contexts, where his philosophy fosters a hands-on learning experience with attention to the nuances of clay’s endless possibilities.  

His dedication lies in inspiring each student to be as passionate, excited, and enthusiastic as he is; encouraging them to use their creativity, hands, minds, and the materials that this wonderful earth has given us to make aesthetically fantastic and timeless objects. 

Through the time and labor-intensive process of handcrafting and assembling hundreds of individually unique forms on the potter’s wheel into objects that can rival human dimensions; his work reflects on the maker’s ongoing dialogue (and occasional tension) with modern technologies and mechanized systems. These systems have their advantages, however our hands must never be forgotten.  

Phil received his BFA: Ceramics from Syracuse University and his MFA: Ceramics from SUNY New Paltz. With advanced skillsets in both ceramic making and firing processes he offers a distinct technical, patient, and joyous perspective in the production of both functional and sculptural forms. He desires to aid in an engaging community of artists of all ages through curiosity, creativity, and mutual support.