I unite painting with ceramics.  Instead of glazing my clay vessels, I cover them—using acrylic or enamel—in geometric patterns influenced by perceptual abstraction.  My aim is to create tension between form and surface decoration. Whereas my patterns are systematic and precise, my pots are a bit wonky and shy away from symmetry—they are often saggy, reminding me of my aging body.

I see my work functioning as both painting and sculpture, yet, I am concerned with craft and want my art to operate in a sweet spot between fine and decorative art.  I am interested in the concept of ‘vessel’ as both container and conveyance.  For me, my vessels represent feelings of containment, and, their rhythmic patterns suggest transcendent escape.  I think of my painted vessels as ‘personal artifacts’ that contain the sum of influences on my art as well as vehicles for recognizing and connecting to other cultures.