About
Michael Rice, born in Belfast in 1972, is an Irish Artist, Designer, Maker, and Educator specializing in ceramics. His work explores surface, texture, natural geometry, gestalt principles, and archetypal forms. Currently residing in Dubai, he holds a Degree in Fine Craft Design, a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (Art and Design), and a Master’s Degree in Multi-Disciplinary Design, all from the University of Ulster. He has participated in artist residencies in the UK, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, UAE, and Indonesia. A member of the International Academy of Ceramics in Geneva, Michael has contributed articles to various publications, including the UK-based ‘Ceramic Review,’ Ceramics Ireland, and ‘Ceramics Art and Perception’ in Australia.
Michael has presented at prestigious universities and institutions globally, such as the University of Ulster, Rhode Island School of Design, and NYU Abu Dhabi. Notable exhibitions include being a finalist at the Taiwan Ceramic Biennale at the Yingge Ceramics Museum in Taipei (2016), runner-up in the Van Cleef & Arpels Middle East Emergent Designer Prize, and a finalist at the Korean Ceramic Biennale (2019). He was also a finalist in the Taiwan Ceramic Biennale (2020) and participated in Ceramic Expressions during Singapore Art Week (2021). Recognized by the Design and Crafts Council of Ireland in their 2021 ‘Portfolio – Critical Selection,’ Michael showcased his work at Expo 2020 Dubai as part of the MENASA Emirati Design Platform and simultaneously at the Irish Expo 2020 pavilion.
In 2023, the Geneva-based Michelangelo Foundation honoured Michael as a Master Artisan. He was a finalist in the 30th edition of the Contemporary Ceramic Art competition at the Museo Della Ceramica di Grottaglie in Italy and remains a finalist in the Taiwan Ceramic Biennale 2024. Michael serves as the Chair of the Visual Communication Department and a Professor of Studio Art at the American University in Dubai.
