Brett Coats earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Art, with an emphasis in ceramics from California State University, Fullerton, in 1990. For over a decade, he studied under and was mentored by acclaimed ceramicist Charlene Felos; who taught ceramics at Cypress college and received her MFA in ceramics from Claremont College under Paul Soldner — widely recognized as the “Father of American Raku.”

Raku has remained at the heart of Brett’s creative journey. Rooted in an ancient Japanese tradition, Raku is a dynamic firing technique in which ceramic pieces are removed from the kiln or beach pit while still glowing hot, then placed into containers with combustible materials. This dramatic process yields unpredictable, one-of-a-kind patterns of color and crackle within the glaze — a perfect marriage of intention and spontaneity.

For Brett, the magic of Raku lies in its unpredictability: each piece emerges from the fire with its own unique spirit, shaped by both artist and flame. His work celebrates this dance between control and chance, honoring a centuries-old craft while making it distinctly his own.