Artist Statement
Since childhood, I have been fascinated by the natural world. I have vivid memories of playing in the mud, bringing home all sorts of creatures, using my rock tumbler and even falling out of trees, much to my poor mother's dismay. I have always been drawn to the water and spent countless hours at the water's edge. There is something about the ebb and flow of the tides, and the patterns they leave in the sand, shells, and stones below that I find hypnotic and peaceful. The beauty and complexity of nature never cease to amaze me.
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It is no surprise that I found my way to clay as a medium. The texture of clay gives me a sense of stability, grounding me and reminding me of my connection to the earth. Working with clay is a meditative and therapeutic experience, allowing me to express myself creatively while connecting with nature. I find inspiration in the shapes, colors, and textures of natural elements, and I strive to capture their essence in my work. I create forms by throwing them on the wheel or making them from slabs of clay. Combining textures found in nature with man-made imprints, the composition represents beauty in conflict. I welcome the cracking and distortion of the clay as it stretches, dries, and moves in the firing process. Often, I lose myself in the work and let my hands intuitively instruct my actions. I find my creative process to be a combination of both informed and experimental approaches. While I draw inspiration from various sources and techniques, I also allow myself to take risks and explore different possibilities as I work.
In my recent series. Emergence: Self Discovery from Form to Flame, I explore the transformative process of personal growth through ceramic work. Utilizing various firing methods, with a particular focus on wood firing, I incorporate mixed media to create primitive and intuitive figures that delve into the central themes of the female journey. Emerging from recent loss and a rapidly changing world, these forms confront grief, trauma, and the instinct for protection, while striving towards self-discovery, empowerment, and the reclamation of identity
In a world that is increasingly disconnected, I believe that art can serve as a bridge, helping us reconnect with the earth and appreciate its beauty. My hope is that my work can inspire others to slow down, take a closer look at the world around them, and find beauty in unexpected places.