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Featured Collector:
Todd Cantrell of Nashville,
Tennessee
Thank you, Todd, for sharing your story and your
collection with us.
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Todd Cantrell is a seasoned collector who
calls Tennessee home. Over the past three years Todd has been building a
wonderful collection of EFP. His burgeoning collection is displayed in a
custom display case made by a woodworker friend.
It was love at first sight the moment Todd
saw Ephraim pottery. “I was on tour with a show that was playing Chicago.
I had the day off and thought I would do some window shopping on the
Miracle Mile. I happened upon the Terra Museum [editor’s note: this museum
is now closed, unfortunately]. In the window they had a beautiful display
of EFP. I stood there and looked at the display, then decided to go in and
have a closer look. Fifteen minutes later I walked out with a Nightshade
Vase. As I was walking out, I stopped once more to look at the display and
immediately turned around and walked back in and bought the Wild Iris
Vase. I justified this action by telling myself that I needed the Wild
Iris because it is the state flower of my home state of Tennessee...go
figure. And an addict was born! It’s more than pottery; it’s my
addiction!” |
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Todd Cantrell with puppy Parker and dogs
Cooper (on knee) and Baxter with part of Todd’s beautifully displayed EFP
collection. |
What is it about Ephraim pottery that so
appeals to Todd that he has become a collector, or in his words, an
addict? Todd explains, “Ephraim speaks to my soul. It is strong and
soulful. It is as beautiful to the touch as it is to the eye. Each piece
is a true work of art.”
Growing up on a horse farm north of
Nashville gave Todd a great appreciation for and love of nature. He says
that he tends to be drawn to pieces that feature flowers and multiple
glazes, although his collection includes all styles of EFP. When asked
about his favorite piece, Todd replies, “Picking a favorite piece is like
picking a favorite child. Each piece has its own special quality. The
Snowdrop and Queen Anne’s Lace are two pieces that I am rather fond of.” |
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Todd especially enjoys the anticipation of
receiving his next piece. “My job keeps me away from home for very long
periods of time,” Todd explains. “I will often order pieces from Ephraim
or Dovetail Antiques and have them shipped home. When I finally do get to
go home, it is always very exciting to tear into those boxes to see what I
ordered!”
Right now, Todd and his partner Larry are
enjoying Todd’s collection. Long term, Todd hopes that his collection will
stay intact and never be sold. “It will probably go to one of my nephews
or a niece,” he says. |
