For artist, sculptor, home renovator and potter Ted Reeder, creating functional art pieces is a way of life, especially when it comes to pottery.
"I primarily design tools to do what I need to use for cooking," said Reeder of his pottery. "I've never had a lot of money, so if I needed something, I made it."
A former dentist and minister in Appalachia, the now-Apison resident's love of pottery began during the "hippie days," and began taking shape in the form of colanders, casserole dishes, coffee cups, canisters, soup tureens, ladles and presentation dishes, he said.
"I've been an artist my whole life," said Reeder of the aesthetic he brings to his work. "Just because it's functional doesn't mean it can't be pretty."
Over the last three years Reeder said he has been able to dedicate more time to his art and has had considerable success with his pottery. He was recently commissioned to create logo mugs for Stone Cup Coffee House on Chattanooga's North Shore in addition to his work being featured and sold at In-Town Gallery and Mia Cucina.
His best-selling items are coffee mugs which are especially unique because of their lightweight design and ergonomic handles, said Reeder.
"Each handle is handmade and different from the last," he said. "Not only is the design ergonomic, its rounded shape keeps fingers from getting burnt."
Reeder mixes his own glazes and hand dips items to create different color effects.
"It's way too time consuming, but I like it," he said with a smile.
All of his pottery pieces are dishwasher, microwave, oven and food safe. Pricing begins at $25 and increases depending on the item.
For more information about Reeder's work, visit North Chattanooga establishments In-Town Gallery or Mia Cucina, where his pottery is for sale.