Are you an artist, arts organization or venue?

artist

What town do you live in?

Leverett

In which disciplines do you work or exhibit?

Clay, Sculpture

Artist Statement/Bio

I am a maker, I am most happy when creating. The creation of an artistic work is not only about the tangible end product but is also about releasing of thoughts, emotions and concerns about myself, my environment, community and society at large. In turn, these thoughts and emotions find their expression in the work. I am a prolific artist. My works typically are large in scale, yet highly detailed and well realized overall.

For the most part my work focuses on the ever changing environment that we live and work in. It reflects changes in rural landscapes that are subjected to pressure from expanding suburban and urban areas, pressure that supports creation of another Walmart, Lowes, McDonalds, or of housing developments in agricultural based lands, and the consolidation of small sustainable farms into agroindustries that support continued urban spread. Though the use of both high and low relief carving, the addition of miniature objects, and the used of naturalistic coloring, my work records social and environmental changes without having a harsh or extreme edge, i.e., without being judgmental. It takes the form of large scale multi layered ceramic pots, which I have come to call story pots. The Images that are presented on the exteriors of the pots depict individual narratives on such things as mass animal farming practices, changing fuels and methods of energy production, and the visual impact of humanity on nature which is continuous and without apparent end.

I believe that it is important to make works that are well constructed, meaningful, have elements that can be accessed by the general public, and even although they record negative impacts of corporate practices on the environment, do not embody blame or judgement. If the public can’t relate to the work because of harsh undertones or because of poor construction then they will have trouble relating to the maker (the artist) and ultimately the work itself. I want to find common ground with my fellow citizens, which is why I find it important to create works that are warming, inviting and even just beautiful, all of which allow for a good reception of the work.

I enjoy working with glass and metal as well as clay. Working in a variety of media allows me to better understand the unique qualities and aspects to each individual medium. Because of this, I find myself able to move between media smoothly and directly, which allows for continued waves of work to be made. I hope to continue the creation of original works and eventually to successfully integrate multiple media in a single piece of work.

I have acquired teaching skills over the past years working as a teaching assistant to professor Steven Dee Edwards at Alfred University here and abroad. I have come to find that teaching at a college level is enjoyable, stimulating and constantly new and refreshing. I want to pursue a career in academia and would welcome the opportunity to pursue graduate studies towards obtaining a MFA.

Website

http://www.thenewgreengates.com