Paul Thomas is a potter based in Perry, New York, specializing in functional ceramic vessels meant to bring a touch of art and handmade connection into everyday small moments. Paul graduated from SUNY Geneseo in 2015 with a degree in Psychology. As a student, Paul began to study under Carl Shanahan and it was here that he discovered his love for the transformational craft of wheel thrown ceramics. After graduation, Paul was able to continue his study under the generosity and mentorship of local potters Clare Keating and Mark Presher, along with the support and encouragement of the Arts Council of Wyoming County.

In March of 2017, Paul was the recipient of a Microenterprise grant through the Wyoming County Rural Arts Initiative which allowed him to invest in the equipment to make his pottery fully independently under the name Pit’s Pots and to have control over each step of his work. Later that year, Paul was invited to demonstrate and create pottery alongside Mark Presher at the Sterling Renaissance Festival. This full circle opportunity allowed Paul to work alongside Mark in the same booth where he had first met him visiting the faire as a small child and first seen pottery made on a wheel. Paul now spends his summer weekends sharing his pots and demonstrations with visitors to the booth, bringing functional arts to the community and invigorating an excitement for ceramics.