Rita Panton’s work follows the tradition of visual storytelling in clay. She records her generation’s personalities and frames of mind through drawings. Her sculptures share glimpses of characters being themselves, often exhibiting attitudes, awkwardness and fears. Rita explores the themes of hyperbole and balance while creating pieces that are a hybrid of flat and sculptural.
Formerly a pastry chef, Rita began her career as a creative educator teaching people culinary skills. Based in Minneapolis, she has taught ceramics at museums, festivals, schools, and community events. She earned her BFA from the University of Minnesota and was awarded a Jerome Project Grant from Northern Clay Center. She has exhibited at Mia, Duluth Art Institute, Form + Content Gallery, NCECCA, Brickyard Pottery, and Northern Clay.
