Walking in the Footsteps

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August 1 – August 31

Opening Reception: Friday, August 1, 6–8 p.m.

Artist Talk with Peter Kiss: Sunday, August 3, 12–1 p.m. in the ArtSpeaks Tent.

Evolving display: discover new works starting Wednesday, August 13.

The Ferry Building Gallery is proud to present Walking in the Footsteps, an exhibition celebrating the legacy of renowned ceramic artist Zoltan Kiss and the work of his son, Peter Kiss and Tania Gleave. This exhibition marks Zoltan’s fourth show at the Ferry Building Gallery, his first shown in memory, Peter’s third, and Tania’s debut.

For over 50 years, Zoltan Kiss pursued a deep mastery of his craft. He built his own kilns, mixed his own glazes, and even imported clay from Wales to achieve specific effects. This intense technical control allowed space for joy and experimentation—qualities reflected not only in his ceramics but in his architectural paintings, where precision met spontaneity.

Peter Kiss continues his father’s joyful spirit in his own work, aiming to uplift viewers and spark a sense of positivity. While Tania Gleave, working at the intersection of material, form, and scale, brings a fresh perspective through her new explorations in clay.

Peter and Tania live surrounded by Zoltan’s work, spanning nearly eight decades. Rarely does a day pass without referencing, questioning, or being inspired by his legacy. Walking in the Footsteps is both a tribute to Zoltan Kiss and a reflection on how his influence lives on in the hands of those closest to him.

As Zoltan once said, “Pottery is a mixture of science, technology, craft, art—and luck.”

Peter is the featured artist for the 2025 Harmony Arts Festival.