Biography

Tom Phardel is an artist and educator working in the Detroit since the late 70’s. He is a graduate of both Eastern Michigan University (BFA) and the University of Michigan MFA. As an artist Tom Phardel is best known for his introspective non-functional ceramic vessel work. The work focuses on the interior space and form relationships; and he is equally known for his large scale mixed-media assembled sculptures: primary materials being ceramic, fabricated steel and glass. His interest with these works lie in the actual processes of making sculpture and the transformation that takes place when disparate materials come together both visually as well as psychologically. Tom Phardel’s artistic career has been highlighted by numerous group and solo exhibitions and awards: most notable the Michigan Creative Arts Award: Exhibitions at both the D.I.A and the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum. Other highlights include being invited to the Shigoraki Ceramic Cultural Park Japan, the Times Square Station mural, for the Detroit People Mover system. He has been awarded more than a dozen times by the MCCA (Michigan Ceramic Arts Association). His work is in the permanent collections of the D.I.A. in Detroit, The Dennos Museum in Traverse City, and Crocker Museum, in Sacramento, California and included in numerous private collections throughout the U.S. Since 1988 to the present he has been the Chairperson of Ceramics at the College for Creative Studies. As a dedicated educator Tom has as actively mentored several students at CCS who have since become nationally recognized artists in the ceramic field. He has curated numerous shows and actively works with many arts organizations throughout metro Detroit.