about us

About Us

Founded in 1979, the American Art Pottery Association (AAPA) was created to unite collectors, dealers, artists, and enthusiasts with a shared passion for American art pottery. For more than four decades, the AAPA has fostered a vibrant and inclusive community through education, appreciation, and preservation efforts. Our members enjoy engaging in a wide range of activities throughout the year, including our annual pottery convention, regional shows and sales, exciting auctions, and the highly regarded Journal of the American Art Pottery Association.

Our Mission

At the core of the AAPA is a mission to:

  • Promote interest, understanding, appreciation, and recognition of American art pottery
  • Unify and strengthen the voice of collectors, dealers, and pottery enthusiasts
  • Establish and uphold a code of ethics for buying, selling, exhibiting, and publishing information about art pottery
Single pot with handles
Art pottery vase with floral relief design in orange, blue, and green glazes on black reflective surface
Two mint green ceramic vases on black reflective surface - one tall narrow form and one shorter rounded jar shape
A decorative vase featuring a vibrant blue and orange design

Meet Our Board Members

The AAPA is guided by a passionate and knowledgeable board of members dedicated to advancing our mission. Meet the individuals whose leadership and expertise drive our organization:

Riley Humler

Riley Humler

President – Ohio

Riley is an auctioneer, collector, and ceramics expert known for his appearances on Antiques Roadshow. He brings decades of knowledge and industry experience to his role as AAPA President.

Christine Boone

Christine Boone

Vice President / Membership Director – Illinois

A long-time member of AAPA, Christine combines her love for pottery with her experience as a collector and dealer. Additionally, she serves on the Wisconsin and Iowa Pottery Associations Board.

Leonard Law

Leonard Law

Trustee – Ohio

Len is a CPA with years of experience working in nonprofit organizations. He is also a long-time member of AAPA and a collector.

Linda Carrigan

Linda Carrigan

Trustee / Journal Editor – Maine

Linda is a passionate collector, speaker, and author who has served as AAPA President for four terms. Her editorial insights continue to enrich our journal.

Marie Latta

Marie Latta

Back-Issue Coordinator – Iowa

Marie is a dedicated collector, dealer, and business owner of Latta Well & Pump. She helps ensure the preservation and accessibility of our journal archives.

Paul Katrich

Paul Katrich

Secretary – Michigan

Paul is a renowned studio potter and owner of Paul J. Katrich: Unique Luster Pottery. His artistry and insight enrich the association’s creative direction.

Konrad Shields

Trustee – Texas

Konrad is a long-time collector, especially of Newcomb. He has served on the Board previously, and throughout the years, has contributed in numerous ways when asked by the Board.

Arnie Small

Arnie Small

Trustee – New Jersey

Arnie Small has been selling American art pottery for over 25 years. Active in many things ceramic, he was President of the AAPA for 10 years and serves on the Board of Pottery Lovers.

Jean Oberkirsch

Jean Oberkirsch

Show Chairperson – Missouri

Jean has been a vital part of the AAPA for over 35 years. She has served as secretary, treasurer, membership secretary, show manager, and all-around keeper of the flame in good and bad times.

We Welcome All Lovers of Pottery

If you share our enthusiasm for art pottery, we invite you to become a member of the AAPA. Join us in celebrating the beauty and significance of American art pottery, and connect with fellow enthusiasts who share your passion.