Artist Statement

The ultimate goal of my artistic endeavors is to make objects that are organic and simultaneously holding a mythical quality. Both my sculptural and functional work are inspired by textures found in nature and take visual inspiration from Pre-Christian time periods, the Renaissance, and Medieval Europe. Additional inspirations include motifs from the medieval fantasy genre like dragons, fairies, and magic.

In my work, I create complex surface textures. I use natural found objects like acorn caps, leaves, and rocks to make impressions. My carved designs usually mimic a natural texture that already exists like tree bark. To create a more organic look, I use glaze finishes with earthy undertones.

Because art is more than a visual experience, I want my pieces to look organic enough that they could be plucked off a tree or grown from the ground. I strive to make my work reminiscent of artifacts found in the archaeology of an undiscovered culture.

Within my work, I am curious about function. Which way will someone hold it? What kind of food or object will be in it? Will this object smell? I want the work to be just as interesting to feel as it is to see. To achieve this, I create highly textural surfaces and use different finishes.

I want the viewer to regard my work with their hands and their eyes. When holding a cup made by me, someone might imagine themself as a Shakespearean Fairy drinking tea in the woods on a Midsummer’s night, or a combatant celebrating the evening after a victorious battle. Overall, I make the work to be transportive and supporting. The goal of all my work is to simply be a silent player in achieving a sense of mysticism when being held and used.