BIOGRAPHY:
As I was born an artist and learnt to be a craftsman in this past decade, my journey has been shaped by hands-on experience gained through numerous jobs and apprenticeships, including an enriching stint at the prestigious Leach Pottery in 2017. This was then followed by a 3 month residency at the Mashiko Museum of Ceramic Art in Mashiko, Japan. My focus lies in the preservation of handmade qualities and making with intent and care; a commitment forged through a love for the process of turning clay into ceramic. Exploring diverse cultures and their techniques through clay during my travels has been a constant source of inspiration, deeply and continuously influencing my approach. My artistic expression predominantly derives from forms made on a potter’s wheel. These forms are then treated as canvases as I decorate with patterns, color, texture, and the use of overlapping glazes. Working with clay is more than a vocation for me; it's a soul-nurturing journey that has, in many ways, saved my life. Having participated in multiple residencies worldwide such as Taller De Terreno BCS, Mexico, La Meridiana International School of Ceramic Art Tuscany, Italy, Greenwich House Pottery New York, New York, and many others. These
residencies have shaped my work to be versatile and eclectic as I adapt to any environment and materials at hand. Allowing place, curiosity, community, and trust be a constant source of fuel and inspiration to be a maker in this world.
As I continue to travel, explore, educate, and further my artistic practice through residencies I feel even more connected to a legacy that was spread through its disciples. Being a former Leach Potter gives me a sense of pride and somewhat obligation to educate and spread a sort of philosophy behind making in this world. This gives me a sense of meaning and purpose that is visible through the work I make and the voice I have. As I look into the future with a plan, yet embrace anything that is thrown my way, I hope to impact people's lives through my teachings, my character, and my work. The mentor-apprentice relationship has deep meaning for me and I strive to foster that with a younger generation of potters in this world as I age.
ARTIST STATEMENT:
My studio practice is deeply personal and intuitive. When I work on the wheel, the clay
guides me, and the forms often emerge naturally through a process of expression. The
tactile experience of shaping clay is transformative; once I am immersed in the process,
emotions take over, and the creation becomes instinctual. Drawing from my background
in production pottery at Kelly Pottery, The Leach Pottery, and Wolf Ceramics, I find
immense satisfaction in making large batches of pots, each piece a testament to my
dedication and passion for the craft.
My apprenticeship at the renowned Leach Pottery in 2017 was a pivotal moment, where
I honed in on my skills and connected with a legacy of craftsmanship under the
mentorship of Roelof Uys. This experience ingrained in me the importance of the
mentor-apprentice relationship, shaping my understanding of pottery beyond technique
to include the philosophy and ethos of the craft.
In my work, I strive to blend beauty with functionality, creating pieces that enrich
everyday life while also serving as visual art. My creative process is rooted in the joy of
making, often leading to a flow state where I am fully engaged with the material. This
dedication to process over product drives my continuous exploration and innovation,
always seeking to improve and discover new techniques.
Inspired by the natural world, especially floral and plant patterns, I create designs that
reflect the intricate beauty of nature. By layering glazes and manipulating patterns, I
achieve mesmerizing fluid patterns reminiscent of fractals, adding depth and movement
to my pieces.
Ultimately, my work speaks to the preservation of handmade qualities and the beauty of
functional art. Each piece is a culmination of tradition and contemporary innovation, a
blend of influences from my mentors and personal exploration. Through my pottery, I
aim to honor the legacy of those who taught me while contributing my unique voice to
the craft.
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