Jeff Schwarz received his MFA from Syracuse University and a BFA from Slippery Rock University. After completing his MFA, Jeff established a studio in Pittsburgh, ran a community based ceramics center at the Carnegie Library in Braddock, PA and became an Americorps member. At the library, Jeff helped establish North America’s first water filter research center. The low-tech water filter has been proven to be 99.9% effective in removing bacteria from dirty drinking water. This technology is used in developing nations to curb the effects of water born disease contracted from drinking water. Also from 2008-2011, Jeff was an instructor at the Community College of Allegheny County teaching ceramics, drawing and art history. While teaching and promoting the ceramic water filter, Schwarz continued his studio practice, exhibiting nationally and internationally. He has been shown in numerous exhibitions; including an exhibition at the Icheon World Ceramic Center in Korea, at The University of Tulsa, at the Carnegie Museum of Art, The Huntington Museum of Art, The Mattress Factory Museum in Pittsburgh, PA and at the Andrew Edlin Gallery, NY. Jeff completed a one-year residency at the Clay Art Center in Port Chester, NY and has established studios in Brooklyn and Pittsburgh.