Pottery

What Is Frankoma Pottery: An Iconic American Art

What Is Frankoma Pottery

Frankoma Pottery is an American pottery company that specializes in sculptures, dinnerware, figurines, trivets, and vases.

Established in 1933 by John Frank, a ceramics professor at the University of Oklahoma, the company is located in Glenpool, Oklahoma.

All Frankoma pottery is made in the United States using locally excavated clay.

The name “Frankoma” is derived from “Frank” and the last three letters of “Oklahoma.” Although the company faced challenges over the years, including fires and bankruptcy, it is currently undergoing a revival with the opening of a new manufacturing site and storefront in Glenpool, Oklahoma, in August 2022.

Did You Know?

1. Frankoma Pottery was founded in 1933 by John Frank, an art professor at the University of Oklahoma, who started making pottery as a hobby.

2. Frankoma Pottery is famous for its distinctive “sapulpa” clay, which is sourced from Sapulpa, Oklahoma. This clay is known for its rich red-brown color and durability.

3. Frankoma Pottery experimented with different glazes, including a unique blend of turquoise glaze inspired by Native American pottery.

4. Frankoma Pottery gained popularity in the 1950s due to its unique designs and affordability. The company produced various pieces, including dinnerware, vases, and sculptures.

5. For a short period of time, Frankoma Pottery made commemorative plates for NASA, celebrating milestones in space exploration like the Apollo moon landing and the Space Shuttle program. These collectible plates have become highly sought after by space enthusiasts.

Introduction To Frankoma Pottery

Frankoma Pottery is an renowned American pottery company that specializes in creating exquisite sculptures, dinnerware, figurines, trivets, and vases. Based in the serene town of Glenpool, Oklahoma, Frankoma Pottery has gained a dedicated following of collectors and enthusiasts. The company is known for its commitment to high-quality craftsmanship and its emphasis on American artistry.

One of the standout features of Frankoma Pottery is its use of locally excavated clay, which adds a unique touch to its creations. By utilizing clay from the surrounding area, the pottery showcases a deep connection to its roots and highlights the rich history of the region.

Whether it’s a beautifully sculpted vase or an intricately designed dinnerware set, every piece from Frankoma Pottery reflects the skill and artistic vision of its creators. The company’s attention to detail and dedication to producing exceptional products have made it a pioneer in the ceramics world.

Overall, Frankoma Pottery is a powerhouse in the world of American ceramics. Its captivating designs and commitment to quality have helped it leave a lasting impact on collectors and enthusiasts alike. With its extensive range of offerings and continued dedication to showcasing American artistry, Frankoma Pottery is a true testament to the beauty and craftsmanship of American pottery.

History And Origins Of Frankoma Pottery

The tale of Frankoma Pottery began in 1933 when John Frank, a ceramics professor at the esteemed University of Oklahoma, founded the company in Norman, Oklahoma. Drawing inspiration from his love for ceramics, Frank established a pottery business that would soon gain recognition for its distinctive creations. The name “Frankoma” was born from John Frank’s surname, blended with the last three letters of his beloved state, Oklahoma.

Though tragedy struck in 1938 when a disastrous fire ravaged the factory, Frankoma Pottery did not succumb to its fate. Rising from the ashes of destruction, the company relocated to Sapulpa and rebuilt the factory later that same year. This resurgence marked a turning point for Frankoma, signaling the beginning of a new era of growth and development.

  • 1933: John Frank, a ceramics professor at the University of Oklahoma, founds Frankoma Pottery in Norman, Oklahoma.
  • The company gains recognition for its distinctive creations.
  • The name “Frankoma” is derived from John Frank’s surname and the last three letters of Oklahoma.
  • 1938: a disastrous fire ravages the factory.
  • Frankoma Pottery relocates to Sapulpa and rebuilds the factory, showing resilience and determination.

“Though tragedy struck, Frankoma Pottery rose from the ashes, marking a turning point for the company.”

Unique Features And Products Of Frankoma Pottery

One of the defining characteristics of Frankoma Pottery lies in its unwavering commitment to using locally excavated clay. From its inception, Frankoma vowed to source its materials from the very earth beneath its feet, ensuring a connection to the region that no other pottery company could replicate. This commitment not only allowed Frankoma to produce unique and distinct pieces but also contributed to the preservation of Oklahoma’s rich geological heritage.

Within the Frankoma Pottery repertoire, an array of exquisite creations awaits discovery. From their iconic dinnerware sets that adorned tables across America to the alluring figurines that captured the imagination, each piece bears the mark of meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. The artistic vision of John Frank and his wife, Grace Lee Frank, extended beyond the ordinary, culminating in the creation of the Gracetone line, a testament to innovation and creativity.

  • Frankoma Pottery is known for its commitment to using locally excavated clay.
  • The company’s dedication to sourcing materials locally sets it apart from other pottery companies.
  • Using locally sourced clay allows Frankoma to create unique and distinct pieces.
  • Frankoma’s commitment also contributes to the preservation of Oklahoma’s geological heritage.
  • The craftsmanship and attention to detail in Frankoma Pottery pieces are highly regarded.
  • John Frank and Grace Lee Frank were instrumental in shaping Frankoma’s artistic vision.
  • The Gracetone line showcases Frankoma’s innovation and creativity.

“One of the defining characteristics of Frankoma Pottery lies in its unwavering commitment to using locally excavated clay.”

Challenges And Changes In Frankoma Pottery’s Legacy

Despite the successes and accolades, every journey has its share of challenges. In 1990, Frankoma Pottery faced a significant hurdle with the filing of Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The company struggled to navigate the changing tides of the market, leading the Frank family to make the difficult decision to sell their cherished enterprise in 1991. Over the years, Frankoma Pottery changed hands multiple times, causing fluctuations and uncertainty within the brand.

The year 2010 marked a turning point for Frankoma Pottery as it closed its doors and faced an uncertain future. In 2011, the company’s molds and rights to the Frankoma name were excluded from the auction, leaving loyal enthusiasts and admirers concerned about the legacy of this iconic American art form. However, all was not lost as a glimmer of hope remained for the revival of Frankoma Pottery.

  • Despite facing bankruptcy protection in 1990, Frankoma Pottery managed to overcome challenges.
  • Frankoma Pottery changed ownership multiple times, causing fluctuations and uncertainty within the brand.
  • In 2010, Frankoma Pottery shut down, but there was still hope for its revival.
  • 2011 brought concern for the legacy of Frankoma Pottery when its molds and name rights were excluded from auction.

Revival And Future Prospects Of Frankoma Pottery

In 2012, the factory building of Frankoma Pottery found a new owner, marking a ray of sunshine through the clouds of uncertainty. Despite a decrease in production volume, the brand continued to create artware, ensuring the preservation of its legacy. The year 2022 was a turning point, as a new manufacturing site and storefront were revealed in Glenpool, Oklahoma, rekindling hopes for a vibrant future.

With its renewed presence and invigorated spirit, Frankoma Pottery aims to captivate a new generation of art enthusiasts while paying homage to its rich history. The company remains dedicated to utilizing local materials, emphasizing craftsmanship, and creating timeless pieces that exude beauty. The revival and future prospects of Frankoma Pottery provide a glimmer of hope for the continued success of this iconic American art form.

  • The factory building of Frankoma Pottery found a new owner in 2012.
  • Production volume decreased, but the brand continued to create artware.
  • A new manufacturing site and storefront were unveiled in Glenpool, Oklahoma in 2022.
  • Frankoma Pottery strives to captivate a new generation while honoring its history.
  • The company emphasizes local materials, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty.

“The revival and future prospects of Frankoma Pottery offer a glimmer of hope that this iconic American art will continue to thrive for generations to come.”


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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of pottery is Frankoma?

Frankoma Pottery is a renowned pottery company recognized for its diverse range of products, but it is most famous for its dinnerware and commemorative Christmas plates. Among its extensive collection, Frankoma is distinguished by five distinct patterns, with the iconic “Wagon Wheel” design standing out. Introduced in 1942 and available until its discontinuation in 1988, this pattern captivated individuals with its unique charm and exquisite craftsmanship. Whether it is dinnerware, vases, mugs, or artware, Frankoma Pottery continues to captivate collectors and admirers with its exceptional quality and timeless appeal.

What is Frankoma pottery made out of?

Frankoma pottery is primarily made out of Oklahoma clay, sourced initially from the Ada area and later from Sapulpa. This unique clay serves as the foundation for their diverse range of products, from dinnerware and Christmas ornaments to intricately crafted artistic pieces. Drawing from the rich natural resources of the state, Frank and his family utilized this clay to create functional and decorative pottery that exhibits a distinct regional charm.

Is Frankoma pottery worth anything?

Yes, Frankoma pottery holds value in the collectors’ market. Notably, their dinnerware patterns can fetch a price of around $175 for a set of four-person place settings. Additionally, Frankoma’s figurines, such as the pacing puma representing the company’s logo, can be worth between $45 and $90, while the white buffalo can sell for $20 to $40. So, if you happen to possess Frankoma pottery, it may indeed hold some monetary worth.

What is the history of Frankoma Pottery?

Frankoma Pottery has a rich history that dates back to 1927 when John Frank, an accomplished ceramic artist from the prestigious Chicago School of Art, was invited to establish a ceramics program at the University of Oklahoma. Recognizing the potential of his craft, Frank took a significant step forward in 1933 by establishing Frank Potteries, which later became known as Frankoma Pottery in 1934. With this pioneering move, Frankoma Pottery became Oklahoma’s very first commercial pottery venture, setting the stage for a remarkable journey in the world of ceramics.

From its humble beginnings, Frankoma Pottery quickly gained recognition for its distinctive designs and impeccable craftsmanship. As creativity flowed within the walls of the pottery, unique and eye-catching pottery pieces emerged, capturing the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts alike. Throughout the years, Frankoma Pottery continued to evolve, cementing its place in the realms of art and pottery. With each piece bearing the signature touch of John Frank’s artistic vision, Frankoma Pottery remains a testament to the enduring legacy of Oklahoma’s ceramic heritage.

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