Honoring a Master: Dick Lehman Featured at For the Love of Art Fair 2026
As For the Love of Art Fair prepares to celebrate its 13th year of inspiring creativity across Michiana, we are thrilled to announce our 2026 Honorary Artist: Dick Lehman, a nationally recognized ceramicist whose work has shaped the region’s artistic identity and elevated the craft of pottery to poetic heights.
Dick Lehman – A Legacy in Clay
Dick Lehman is more than a ceramic artist—he’s a storyteller in stoneware, a pioneer in kiln innovation, and a mentor to generations of potters. Based in Goshen, Indiana, Dick has spent over four decades refining his techniques and exploring the expressive potential of clay. His signature pieces—often wood-fired or saggar-fired—are known for their rich surfaces, organic textures, and quiet elegance. Each vessel carries the marks of fire, time, and intention, inviting viewers to pause and reflect.
Dick’s work has been exhibited internationally and featured in leading ceramics publications. He’s also a prolific writer, sharing insights into the philosophy and process behind his art. His commitment to craftsmanship and community has made him a beloved figure in the Midwest and beyond.
The Michiana Pottery Tour Connection
As a founding member of the Michiana Pottery Tour, Dick helped create one of the region’s most cherished annual events. The tour brings together dozens of ceramic artists from across Northern Indiana and Southern Michigan, opening their studios to the public for a weekend of discovery, dialogue, and connection. Dick’s studio has long been a highlight of the tour, where visitors can witness the fusion of tradition and experimentation that defines his work.
His leadership in the tour reflects his deep belief in collaboration and education—values that resonate strongly with the mission of For the Love of Art Fair.
Nearly 50 Artists Join the Celebration
Joining Dick Lehman this year are nearly 50 exceptional artists from across the Midwest, including three standout talents from Valparaiso, Indiana:
- Laura Gutzwiller, representing the Valparaiso Creative Council, returns for her third year at the fair. Laura is a felt artist whose 2D framed landscapes—crafted entirely from felt—evoke warmth, texture, and a sense of place. Her work will be featured on this year’s official For the Love of Art Fair billboard, generously sponsored by Outfront Media. Laura’s artistry and community spirit continue to energize the fair with color, movement, and heart.
- Brian Teixeira, our 2025 Best Sculpture award winner, also returns. A master woodworker, Brian’s finely crafted wood turned bowls, and sculptures blend form and function with elegance. His accolades include Best in Show at the Chesterton Juried Art Show, and his work consistently draws admiration for its precision and soul.
- Recardo Cortez brings his imaginative steampunk sculptures back to the fair, along with his award-winning booth display. Recardo is also a celebrated muralist, recently honored in his hometown of Frankfort for his outstanding contributions to public art and city beautification. His work bridges fantasy and industrial together, making him a favorite among fairgoers.
An Art Fair Rooted in the South Bend Community
For the Love of Art Fair continues to be a beacon of creativity, connection, and celebration. With artists like Dick Lehman, Laura Gutzwiller, Brian Teixeira, and Recardo Cortez leading the way, 2026 promises to be our most inspiring year yet.
We invite you to join us in honoring these remarkable artists and experiencing the magic of Michiana’s premier indoor art event February 7-8, 2026 at the South Bend Century Center in the heart of downtown South Bend.