Brian Kaiser will present the life and works of Rufus B. Keeler, founder, plant manager, and sole ceramist of the Calco (1923-1932) and Malibu potteries (1926-1932). Keeler’s mastery of the medium contributed to many historic locations throughout Los Angeles; such as the Natural History Museum; “Dias Dorados” in Beverly Hills, the home of Thomas Ince; “Ocean House”, the beach home of Marion Davies and William Randolph Hearst; City Hall; the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel; The Mayan Theatre; and Rindge Castle in Malibu.

The primary emphasis of this lecture will be on Keeler’s own home, designed and built by Keeler himself in 1924 and made entirely of Calco tile. This Spanish Colonial Revival was meant to be a showcase for the use of clay products in home construction and decoration, and still stands as a magnificent example of Keeler’s artistry.

Brian Kaiser has owned the Rufus Keeler home since 1987. Kaiser has extensively researched Keeler’s life, conducted many interviews with the Keeler family, spending several years excavating the original Calco Pottery site and is responsible for the discovery and restoration of the original Malibu tile wall fountain in the blossom ballroom at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel.