Stanley Mace Andersen received a BA in Philosophy, a BA in Sociology, and a Master of Library of Science at the University of Iowa before receiving his MFA in ceramics from the Rhode Island School of Design in 1978.  He was an Artist-in-Residence at the Penland School of Crafts from 1979 - 1983.

In 1983 Stan and his wife bought an old mountain farm in Bandana, NC.  The pastures, meadows, and woodlands that surround his studio serve as inspiration for the surface decoration of his pottery.  He produces utilitarian earthenware pots for the table and kitchen, using the maiolica technique to paint his pieces with strong colors and flowing patterns.

Stan has taught at Penland School of Crafts, Anderson Ranch, and the Rhode Island School of Design Summer Program.  His work is widely exhibited and has appeared in numerous books and periodicals.

"I want my pottery to become part of the daily flow of domestic life, to contribute to the enjoyment of preparing, presenting, and serving food.  I am concerned with the expression of line, color, patterns and their relationship to hardy pottery forms, and I hope my pots convey a sense of exuberance and casual spontaneity."