John Pitchi is the son of Albanian immigrants who settled in eastern North Carolina and became successes in the restaurant business. For years, John earned his livelihood as manager of the Rathskeller restaurant in Raleigh, though he has always painted for his own pleasure. Now, he is focusing his energies on what he has always loved–creating art. In 1997, John took his first pottery class and fell in love with the medium. He studied with Keith Miller, learning the use of under glazes and hand-building techniques. He is furthering his studies with Jennifer Stas, teacher at Pullen Park Craft Center and studio artist at Cedar Creek Pottery.

Artist Statement
“My art is a place of comfort for me to dwell in. I’m in awe of nature, so it is a great source for all my art. I believe that to love nature is to love God and that the best way I can pay tribute to Him is by creating my art. I work hard to please myself with each piece I create. If it pleases someone else, then that is icing on the cake.”