Artist statement…

As a ceramic artist, I often find myself occupying the middle ground B blurring the conventional definitions of organic versus geometric form, and functional versus sculptural intent. I consider myself a vessel maker, but my vessels do not serve a defined utilitarian purpose. Most are sculptural with functional references, but no defined use. My ultimate artistic goal is for the viewer to be intrigued by my work, and to draw his own conclusions, without being forced to categorize the forms.

My vessels are active but also meditative works, which allow them to be a vehicle for exploration and thought. My intent is for the viewer to find a point of reference B be it organic, figurative, or architectural. I am inspired by nature, landscape, the body, and design elements of varying types, but I do not directly incorporate these ideas on a conscious level. Later, after a piece is complete, I relish the images that appear to me as well as to the viewer. The exploration of a completed work is as important to me as the initial construction. For me, each piece serves to evoke visual memories, becoming a physical representation of actions, visions, and thoughts. I strive for a personal connection to my work while providing a reflective space for others to have their own personal connections.

Usually, I cannot pinpoint a specific point of inspiration. It is the act of creation itself that fuels my desire to make new work. I approach my ceramic vessels with contemplation and deliberation but without a predestined pattern. I roll out a blank slab of clay and make several definitive cuts that lead me to the path of the piece as a whole. I create my work in a meditative state, so that intent becomes secondary to the feel of the clay, and the visualization of how the piece is coming together. The piece itself shows me how to proceed. After the initial creative burst, I spend time on the details of the piece, creating niches and edges to pique the interest of the viewer.

My conscious artistic focus is form and line, and how these elements can be enhanced with color, sparkling glazes, or an unexpected detail like a sweeping curve, strong plane, or a meditative pool. I enclose and reveal spaces within my work, where often the underneath Ahidden@ areas of the piece are the most deliberate. These hidden areas offer an area of active exploration for the viewer. I incorporate these Aclosed@ areas to represent the places and ideas that we all keep inside B be they secrets, ponderings, meditation, or creative ramblings. In contrast, the top surfaces are a smooth, cool expanse of space - a plane for the viewer to rest upon or meditate, a reflecting place for the secrets we keep locked inside. I strive to present this moment of meditation rather than a direction toward a specific point of reference.