Artist Gary Pletsch moved to Pittsburgh in 1986, calling it his "forever artistic home." After studying with ceramic artist Valda Cox at the Carnegie Museum of Art, Gary eventually became staff in the museum's Education department, managing the ceramic studio and teaching classes. In 1990, Gary co-founded a cooperative of ceramic artists with Cox, Cathie McCormick, Sylvia Kirby and Bill Foglia in the Strip District of Pittsburgh, selling his unique, carved pots at Penn Avenue Pottery.
Throughout his personal and professional life, Gary opened his home and garden to numerous social and artistic events that brought people together. He loved to give space and encouragement to many artists to realize their vision. The role of mentor and catalyst was one that he cherished and engaged in frequently.
Gary Pletsch died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on April 6, 2021, at the age of 72.
Despite his modest means living as a potter, he unfailingly gave 10% of his proceeds to a variety of nonprofits every year. He especially loved to champion emerging artists, providing them seed money to see their vision realized. To honor Gary’s legacy and carry on his charitable tradition, this fund has been established from contributions by his loving friends and fellow artists.
Read Gary’s obituary.
News articles about Gary:
- Penn Avenue Pottery still fired up after 20 years in the Strip (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, subscription required)
- Yes, In My Back Yard - Artist Gary Pletsch will protest the Mon-Fayette Expressway by paving his own garden (Pittsburgh City Paper)