Artist Statement
My art is autobiographical and expressive. I create organic and abstract sculptures and functional pottery. The intention for my work is to articulate abstract thoughts, untouchable emotions, and my personal identity into the physical world.
Who am I?
My current choice of material used to translate my identity with is clay. Working with clay is a very physical experience, requiring me to be in tune with my body as I am making. Using my body to create is essential for transforming the abstract energy in my consciousness into this physical reality.
I use a few tools and my two hands to build my work. I most often use coil-building and pinching techniques to make these sculptural and functional objects. They are organic and sometimes imperfect, and that’s intentional – as I am organic and imperfect. Different types of clay bodies, firing temperatures, building techniques, and finished surfaces are used in my ceramic work. I like to think that this range of diversity in process is a reflection of my own multi-dimensionality.
My artwork is an extension of me, and I am sharing that piece of myself with you. The process of self-discovery is confusing. I am heavily influenced by those around me and used to experience difficulty embracing my own individuality and differences as a creative person in the artistic world. In the past, I would try and create work that was similar to those I admired, which gave me a foundation to grow from, but stopped myself from exploring uncharted territory because of fear. I have begun (but have yet to master) not letting fear hold me back from creating, making, and being. My personal expression through visual and physical means invites the opportunity for vulnerability. By being vulnerable, I open the door for a return of mutual energy. Vulnerability cultivates trust, connection, and authenticity; qualities our society desperately needs more of. My work inexplicably says, “This is me. Who are you?”
When the human being is no longer in survival mode, they can enter the creative state of being; there is where the magic happens. My goal is to expand past survival mode – past the fear. Making is my meditation. Art is a world that I have only begun to explore. There is so much to learn. I am merely a messenger, or a vessel for inspiration and creativity from the Universe to flow through, to share with the world. I am honored to be a part of that process.
