Polyfunctional
The majority of these works were produced for a solo exhibition "Polyfunctional" which was presented in June of 2016 at Gallery 224, Office for the Arts, Harvard University, Alston MA. Some of the works illustrated in this portfolio are more recent pieces which continue this investigation of thrown and altered forms resulting in extremely asymmetrical works. During the production of these works the idea of multiple pieces being combined so they can be used in different ways to serve multiple functions became important.
These works began with the desire to make sculptural forms to collaborate with the wood firing process. As this atmosphere produces varied results it is hard to predict what exactly will happen. The idea of producing similar forms in different clay bodies and finishing processes is important for this body of work. The Serving / Flower Bowls in this series have been fired in various atmospheres and reflect where I feel this body of work is headed in form and concept.
Recently I ponder the difference between having an artistic practice and an artist career. I am fortunate to have an academic position which frees me to produce works I know will be difficult for those who have followed my work over the last three decades to accept and support. At present these new works still hold my fascination and make me excited to be in my studio. That is what is important. I can always revisit earlier bodies of work as long as I keep discovering new things. As I say to myself in the studio, I can be retro as long as I’m being retroactive.