Daniel Shapiro is a ceramic artist based in St. Louis who specializes in creating works that are functional, sculptural, and rooted in imagination. Drawing upon his 15 years of experience as a graphic designer, Shapiro’s approach to each piece is informed by a fusion of the digital world with the organic medium of clay. This synthesis imbues his works with a sense of playfulness and surprising energy, marrying the contemporary with the timeless.
Daniel’s artistic journey has taken him through various corners of the United States, starting from a small Missouri town where he spent his formative years to Miami, New York, and Los Angeles, where he honed his skills as a designer. Each of these locations has contributed to shaping his unique design language, leaving a distinct imprint on his creations.
In 2017, Daniel was introduced to the world of ceramics when he enrolled in a class at a local pottery studio in Atwater, Los Angeles. Drawing from the foundational lessons of that class, he established his own studio within his Los Angeles residence, embarking on a transformative journey of artistic exploration. With the onset of the pandemic, his creative endeavors gained momentum.
In 2021, Shapiro made the decision to return to Missouri, bringing him closer to family and expanding his studio operation. This relocation proved instrumental in his continued artistic growth.
Notably, in 2023, Daniel Shapiro received the prestigious Editors Award for Lighting at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair in New York.