Draft:Jim Rumph

James Calhoun Rumph (August 17, 1942 – September 1, 1993). was an American artist known for his unique and whimsical ceramic creations. His work is characterized by its playful and imaginative style, often featuring fantastical creatures and humorous themes.

Early Life
James Calhoun Rumph was born James Kelsey Calhoun, in St, Louis, Missouri. Tragically, his father, Alan Duncan Calhoun, died when James was only three months old. His mother, Patricia Rassieur Kelsey, later remarried, and James took on the last name of his stepfather, becoming James Kelsey Calhoun Rumph. Throughout his life, he signed his works with variations of his full name, reflecting his complex family history.

Artistic Career
Rumph was a unique artist known for his eccentric and whimsical pottery, particularly his tankards, mugs, and sculptures. His most famous pieces include intricate, fantastical designs that often incorporated elements of fantasy and humor. Rumph's career was marked by his association with several well-known companies, including Ceramarte of Brazil, Image Products, California Originals , and Berney Karp. Rumph often used his company name of "Mind Circus" to mark his products.

He operated out of the Slyme Factory, his studio in Santa Monica, where he produced many of his iconic pieces. The Slyme Factory became a hub of creativity and innovation, attracting various artists and fans of Rumph's work.

Some of his most famous pieces were his mass-produced Star Wars tankards, especially the Chewie one, which was George Lucas' favorite. Darth Vader and Obi-wan Kenobi tankards were also mass-produced from the Star Wars movies.

Additionally, he created the Admiral Kirk and Mr. Spock tankards from the Star Trek movies.

Jim's E.T. piggy bank sculpture was featured on the cover with Steven Spielberg's mother, Leah Adler, in People Magazine in 1982

Personal Life
Rumph's personal life was as colorful as his art. He was known for his larger-than-life personality and his love for the unconventional. His alter ego, "Dr. Rumph ," a black-haired, mustachioed trickster, appeared in several of his works and became a signature character in his art. Jim married Daryle Ann (Smith) Rumph, who preceded him in death in 1991. He lived in various locations in California, including Pacific Palisades and Santa Monica, where he mingled with other artists and celebrities. Despite his vibrant social life, Rumph faced hardships, including periods of financial difficulty and personal loss.

Death
Jim Rumph tragically died on September 1, 1993, after being struck by a moving vehicle.

Legacy
His death marked the end of an era for many who knew him, but his legacy continues through his unique and cherished art pieces celebrated and collected by enthusiasts worldwide. Websites like TheRumph.com and RumphCollector.com have been dedicated to cataloging and preserving his unique creations, ensuring that his legacy endures.

Jim Rumph's art remains a testament to his creative genius and his ability to bring humor and imagination to life through ceramics.