Artist statement…

Artists are prone to examine and collect natural and man-made objects. I am guilty of accumulating a massive number of things including vintage textiles, kitchenware, seed pods and seashells. I love the repetitive patterning seen in textiles and the lines, forms, textures and shapes discovered in nature. These objects are visual research and play a large role in the creative process.

I carve symbols to create clay stamps which represent insome fashion the objects that I have accumulated. Many symbols, like the spiral, circle, cross and X, are universally known. Some of the symbols carved onto the clay surface duplicate a texture or pattern found on a vintage textile. Using paper templates, hand carved stamps and slab construction, I combine the natural with the man-made to fabricate functional clay vessels. I enjoy the creative process from flat sheets of clay to boxlike cups.

My study of Depression glass and kitchenware has resulted in the production of functional clay pieces. Footed hors d’oeuvres trays, divided dishes, salt and pepper shakers, handled service trays and drink sets constitute the main body of my work.