Ceramics

I am drawn to clay. It is malleable, forgiving and impressionable – until it is fired.

Then it is transformed, emerging from the kiln, solid and unwavering.

Clay is an ideal canvas. It is a “tabula rasa” – a blank slate – on which to imprint ideas, images, and textures.  Whether collecting found objects to imprint or creating silkscreens from black and white images to use, my pieces are non-functional; I prefer to make objects that elevate aesthetics above utilitarianism.

"Stay Tuned" 

This Image is part of an era gone by. In the 1950s/1960s – TV stations would go “off air” at midnight – and one image would stay on – with a static-like noise in the background. This “TV Test” pattern stays with me – from childhood – as a great graphic and call to action. It fits into my concept of the tests we take in life, but also is a reminder to self – to STAY TUNED;  I never know when inspiration might strike or what idea will take center stage – embedding itself in my mind until it takes shape….so stay tuned for more work!

"Textured"

As a writer, photographer and teacher, I prefer to use white stoneware. It most closely mimics paper and is an ideal backdrop on which to transfer imagery, words, and textures. I find patterns mesmerizing, whether from a small garlic press from pressed into clay, pillow-case edge trim from a childhood room to capture memories, tire treads or large-scale industrial rivets as inspiration for repetitive pattern. The forms I create are randomly folded in response to the “call of the clay.”  I seek to quickly capture a form that feels imbued with breath inside, thereby opening the piece to the world in terms of volume and appearance.