Artist Statement

ALICE M. YUTZY
ARTIST STATEMENT

CLAY… I love its smell, its sensuous plasticity. Working with clay is symbolic of my close relationship with the earth and connection to nature. The directness of clay, ever yielding to pressure, conforming to shapes created with hands and tools contributes to an immediate manipulative quality that appeals to me. Feelings of comfort and familiarity are fostered within me during the creation of a piece.

Gnarled and bulbous root forms, organic qualities within the swollen curves and shadowy crevices, contribute to a lifelike essence within each piece. The creative process is governed by a form-based focus using the tactile manipulative quality of clay to express symbolic meaning within each piece. An investigation of megalithic monuments and stone circles of prehistoric times has fostered a deep respect for the mystery, peace and awe surrounding these ancient stone configurations. My intent is to use my ceramic forms in the creation of both contemplative space and expression of human conditions that serve to enrich our lives.

The pieces are created hollow, primarily using the coil technique. A specialized clay body using 30% grog is used to discourage warping and cracking of large sculptural pieces. Large pieces use a maquette (model) as motivation during construction. Both earth tone and brightly colored finishes are used along with a black volcanic ash stain to accentuate the texture and crevices of the organic form. Larger pieces are constructed in modular sections to facilitate firing and transporting. Vertical pieces fit together with ceramic flanges, while horizontal pieces give the appearance of connection while using separate pieces to create the total form. Most pieces are high-fired for durability and strength. These sculptures are designed for indoor or outdoor installation. Resolution of technical issues during the development and creation of the pieces requires stamina and endurance but the result is a mature and solid body of work.

The organic qualities of the sculptures each symbolize a human quality or condition intended to enhance positive interaction and inquiry with a variety of life’s processes and circumstances. The variety of themes expressed are based upon an acknowledgement of universal human conditions that serve to enrich our lives. The viewer is free to move among the forms, always having the freedom of interpretation, contemplation, or simply to enjoy the beauty of the organic presence of each piece. My hope is that these pieces will convey a sense of peace and tranquility to the viewer, resulting in a uniquely personal experience for each person.