Artist’s Statement
I chose to work in clay because it most satisfactorily fulfulls my desire to express ideas in 3 dimension. Rather than being specific, these ideas are rather illusive.
Practicing a craft with ambiguous reference to purpose and function one has occasion to face absurdity. More than anything, somewhat like a demented piano tuner one is trying to approximate a phantom pitch.
– Hans Coper
My work is not “theory laden.” The piece starts as a vague sketch that emerges only during my interaction with the clay — its potential and limitations. When complete, the object exists independent of the artist. The responsibility of the artist lies in the conception and execution of the work. Subsequent to that, the relevant relationship becomes that between the work of art and its viewer. Success is measured by the enjoyment the viewer experiences in the contemplation of the object.
Geological formations are the basis of my inspiration. I attempt to translate the sculptural elements in nature into a personal sense of mass, contour, volume, and space. When successful this communicates strength and permanence. Also, by the use of coarse, scraped surfaces and cement glazes which are encouraged to crack and peel, the feeling of erosion is evoked.
As on canyon walls, light and shadow are important elements in viewing the vessels and wall reliefs. As the wall pieces emerge into 3 dimension they are defined by the light falling on them. All of these elements contribute to the viewer’s reaction.