Inspired by architecture, landscape, and the rural midwest, Ernest re-imagines these lines and forms into the ceramic vessel. His goal is to bridge rural roots with the urban environment by creating pieces that speak to both worlds. Modern ideals and an appreciation of tradition are central and reflected in craftsmanship, glaze alchemy and the investigation of the ceramic form.

Most of Ernest’s work is made with porcelain clay that is mixed and pugged in his studio. His pieces usually begin on the potter’s wheel and later they are hand altered and trimmed. Once dried and bisque fired, each piece is coated with glaze and finish fired to 2,250 degrees Fahrenheit.

Ernest has exhibited his work in various regional and national art fairs including the Uptown Art Fair in Minneapolis, Minnesota and the Plaza Art Fair in Kansas City, Missouri. Ernest teaches ceramic techniques at Fired Up Studios in Minneapolis, Minnesota and at the Minnetonka Center for the Arts in Wayzata, Minnesota. He recently was a recipient of a Minnesota State Arts Board Artist Initiative Grant.