Otto Heino

Otto and Viveka Heino, a husband and wife team that made pottery together for 45 years, were important teachers, makers, and key figures in the changing world of ceramics and studio pottery in the 20th century. Drafted into the army with the onset of WWII, Otto (American, 1915-2009) spent his time stationed in Europe and was able to take art classes and visit some important potteries, such as that of Bernard Leach in England. Using the GI Bill when he returned, Otto studied ceramics in New Hampshire, where he was taught by Viveka whom he would later marry. Viveka (American, 1910-1995) first trained to be a teacher, but art was her passion. She studied art in Colorado and then moved to California, where she began working with ceramics. Viveka went on to obtain her MA at Alfred University in NY, where she was the second master’s graduate in the ceramics program. After marrying, the couple moved to California and Viveka taught ceramics for several years before moving back east where she taught at the Rhode Island School of Design and the New England College, while Otto continued to run his own pottery studio. They returned to Ojai, California to buy the studio of their friend Beatrice Potter (an incredibly important potter in her own right). Back in California, they focused on their studio work and together prolifically created pottery that would bear both of their names. They were extremely knowledgeable on the various bodies of clay and glazing techniques, knowledge which they readily shared, along with both being technically masterful throwers primarily producing functional pottery. Their incredible skills and great willingness to teach others created a legacy in 20th century ceramics that makers and curators alike continue to honor and reference.