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Douglas Ferguson
(1912-2000)
Called a "mountain boy" hailing from the southern United States, Doug Ferguson's early ambitions were to attend the a prestigious art school in Chicago Illinois. His dream was never realized, however he began his artistic career relatively early painting pin-ups for his college classmates and sneaking away to the library in off moments to study anatomy.
Settling in Pigeon Forge Tennessee with his wife Ruth, the couple opened the Pigeon Forge Pottery in 1946 with the help of Ruth's father Ernest Wilson. This innovative pair was among the few commercial potters of the day who did all of the work along the course of production from design to finishing. Instead of going to the expense of purchasing equipment, they designed tools themselves in their converted tobacco farm turned studio. The results of their efforts were always influenced by their location, from local clay used to cast or throw the bodies of their pieces, to the local artisans and artists they hired, to the glazes and natural color palette inspired by the local Pigeon Forge landscape.
After 53 years in the pottery business Doug and Ruth finally decided to retire. Pigeon Forge pottery closed its doors for good in 2000 following Doug's death.
To learn more about Douglas Ferguson:
• The Pigeon Forge Pottery
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