ARTIST STATEMENT

ARTIST STATEMENT

I have worked with clay since 1993. Currently, my focus is in raku-fired, artistic works. Raku is a pottery firing technique dating back to 16th century Japan. During the 1960’s this ancient art of Raku was given a Western twist by legendary artist, Paul Soldner.

Using the Classical Elements of earth, fire, water and air my work in Raku pottery results in distinct, singular vessels and artistic treasures. I strive towards making “perfect” creations, only to be reminded of the unpredictable beauty that is the essence of Raku.

Welcome. Please take a stroll around my digital gallery. Let me know if you have any questions. ~ Mary

“In the spirit of raku: make no demands, expect nothing, follow no absolute plan, be secure in change,
learn to accept another solution and, finally, prefer to gamble on your own intuition.
Raku offers us deep understanding of those qualities in pottery which are of a more spiritual nature,
of pots by men willing to create objects that have meaning as well as function.”
(Soldner, 1973)