Artist Statement

My ceramic practice is rooted in a deep fascination with the materiality and processes of clay. For me, ceramics is an art form that transcends function, offering a tactile connection to the earth, history, and the transformative power of fire. The malleability and impermanence of clay open endless possibilities for creation, from intimate hand-formed vessels to intricate textures and surface treatments. The process of working with clay—shaping, carving, firing—feels like a conversation between myself and the earth’s ancient materials.

Growing up in Fairbanks, Alaska, I was surrounded by a stark contrast between vast, unspoiled nature and the encroaching industrial landscape. This tension between the organic and the constructed informs much of my work. The natural world’s textures, shapes, and colors constantly inspire me, while mechanical, rigid human-made elements reflect the conflict and coexistence between these forces. Ceramics allows me to explore this dynamic, where the earth becomes both my canvas and my medium.

A core aspect of my practice is the process itself. I find joy not only in the final form but in shaping the clay—from wedging it to throwing it on the wheel, and carving intricate details that reveal hidden layers of texture. The act of creating negative space through piercing and carving excites me, balancing the solid and the void. This lightness mirrors my fascination with the spaces in between—whether the gaps in industrial structures or the voids within nature.

The beauty of ceramics lies in its inherent tension—materials that begin as simple substances transform into objects with meanings beyond their physical properties. The firing process, especially salt firing, creates unique variations in color and texture that mirror the constant change I observe in the world around me. The chemistry of the materials, the glaze, and the kiln atmosphere come together to create surfaces that feel both natural and otherworldly. Through my work, I aim to balance the organic and industrial. By drawing inspiration from nature and human-made forms, I create objects that reflect both the beauty of nature and the impact of industrialization. The marks on the clay’s surface tell stories, inviting contemplation of light, space, and matter. Ultimately, my ceramics are about the relationship I cultivate with materials and processes, creating pieces that invite connection to both the past and the present.