Mr. Cocke began his ceramics career studying with Susan Peterson at the University of Southern California in the early 60's where he earned a solid education in the basics of pottery making. Soon thereafter, his education was expanded with classes at the Chouinard Art Institute (later renamed the California Institute of the Arts) when it was under the direction of Vivika Heino. Next, Phillip Cornelius provided his unique artistic input when Mr. Cocke attended ceramic classes at Pasadena City College.

In 1995, after raising a large family and completing a career as a successful architect, Mr. Cocke re-entered the field of ceramics arts. The next year he was offered a position as an instructor at the Foothill Creative Arts Group in Sierra Madre, CA where he taught until 2001. From 1995 to 2001, Mr. Cocke maintained a studio in Pasadena and exhibited and sold pottery throughout Southern California.

The work of Camano Island Pottery consists of functional ceramic vessels designed for daily use. The clays used, porcelain and stoneware, are fired to medium-high temperatures, making them dense and waterproof. Vessels for food are safe for baking, microwave and the dishwasher. Sculptural vessels, vases and other vessels for non-food uses may have decorative glazes not appropriate for serving food.

I believe that human life and art are inextricably connected. My goal is to infuse life’s spirit into the work and to create pottery that speaks to one’s soul.

I consider the greatest function of functional pottery is it’s ability to excite the user. The scale I use to balance spirit and function always tips towards spirit.