Colors on Clay
The San José Tile Workshops of San Antonio
by Susan Toomey Frost
Equal parts art, biography, and history, Colors on Clay brings to life the artistry, designers, and styles that brought the San José Workshops' distinctive art pottery to international prominence.
Author Susan Toomey Frost tells the story of how two colorful characters, Ethel Wilson Harris and her talented designer Fernando Ramos, revived a dying Mexican art and eventually became the driving forces behind three San Antonio art tile factories, known collectively as the San José Workshops.
Produced from 1931 through 1977, the factories' tiles and wares became celebrated throughout the world and prized in San Antonio for both public and private installations. In addition to historical and biographical information, Frost provides detailed information on authentic tiles, helping collectors steer clear of the many reproductions on the market.
Featuring 300 full-color illustrations, including never-before-seen drawings, this exhaustively researched and eminently readable book is an important addition to any collector's library.
Upcoming Events
Exhibit
September 19, 2009 to March 21, 2010
Witte Museum
Betty Coates Textile Gallery
Drawn from the outstanding private collection of Susan Toomey Frost, this exhibit features a selection of brightly colored tiles decorated to reflect the popular imagery of Mexico and South Texas.
Booksigning
September 20, 2009
The Witte Museum will host a book signing and author discussion with Ms. Frost from 2 to 5 pm. For more details, contact books@trinity.edu.