John Gargano

John Gargano is a Professor of Visual Arts and head of the ceramics program at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette's College of the Arts, where he has served since 2000. A ceramic sculptor with over 31 years of exhibition experience across 14 U.S. states and internationally, he has received multiple awards and fellowships in Ohio and Louisiana.

Education:

• B.F.A. with Honors, Center for Creative Studies (1992)
• M.F.A., Magna cum laude, The Ohio State University (1997)

Research Focus: Professor Gargano specializes in atmospheric firing processes, particularly wood firing, soda firing, and reduction cooling techniques. His sculptural work integrates rubber gaskets and metal fasteners into oxidation-fired stoneware, creating large-scale pieces that explore form-surface relationships in contemporary ceramics.

Scientific Awards:

• Honorable Mention, Korean International Ceramic Biennale 2021
• Second Prize, 10th Annual Clay International Juried Exhibition (2020)
• Honorable Mention Award, Craft Forms 2017
• LEDA and Acadiana Center for the Arts ArtSpark Artist Stipend (2015)
• Louisiana Division of the Arts Artist Career Advancement Grant (2015)
• First Prize, 4th Biennial Central Time Ceramics (2014)

Facilities and Grants: His successful grant-writing established UL Lafayette's outdoor kiln yard for ceramics education. He maintains a 1,200-square-foot personal studio in Broussard, Louisiana, supporting both academic and independent artistic production.

Professional Engagement: Professor Gargano has completed international residencies at Watershed Center for the Ceramic Arts (2011) and Medalta Potteries (2015), taught in UL Lafayette's Paris Study Abroad program, and delivered workshops at institutions including The Ohio State University, Hartwick College, and Jacksonville State University.