Artist Statement:

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               As an ceramic artist, I try to break away from the ideals set for utilitarian ceramics. Although my work is functional, when I make them I view them also as a piece of art. I've been attempting to hide the idea of utility and replace that with them being one cohesive artistic object. Primarily I focus on making teapots. I use a porcelain body and once I have them assembled I will apply a black slip to the outside so I can carve them. In the assemblage I use my attachments to start a harmonious flow through the work. 

              The reason I have chosen to make teapots is due to the history behind them. For many cultures, tea ceremonies are described as a meditative process. They give the participant a sense of relaxation.  For me the intuitive process of carving the surface on an object  is very meditative. While carving I enter a state of meditation, every single line premeditated and executed. My art provokes emotion.  

                My carvings are sets of geometric patterns that cover the entire object. Within the negative space I will add colors emphasize the movement throughout the object. Not only do my colors create movement but certain combinations will read as different emotions to the viewer. My  line work and choices of color combination are most recognizably influenced by the minimalist art movement. I find most of my inspiration in two artists in particular, Sol Lewitt has an excellent use of line and Ilya Bolotowsky uses color combinations in a sophisticated manner.  

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