GOELET GALLERY - April 18th to June 20th, 2015
"SHARDS"
Ceramics by Karen Ford
Website : www.karenfordceramics.com
The Artist's Statement
My grandfather owned a Chinese restaurant. At an early age I became aware of the significance of holiday celebrations and milestone family events of birthdays, weddings, and funerals because they were centered on a meal or banquet. Many courses of food, each having significant meaning (e.g.,noodles=longevity), were always served family-style.
My work celebrates this union of family and friends in a communal fashion. Each piece reflects the user and how the food is presented. Each should be aesthetically pleasing as well as completely functional. I employ simple organic forms because I believe that the marriage of clay, form and glaze speak for themselves.
This aesthetic was reinforced after a trip to Japan which incorporated food and art. Each meal was meticulously prepared and presented on a piece of pottery that allowed the food to be the focal point. Even the simplest vegetable or piece of fish was presented in a creative and beautiful way.
My work is a fusion between clay, fire and glass. I press texture into the porcelain, using natural objects to form abstract textures. The small bits of glass melt during the second firing, creating a pool of translucent color. These small puddles of glass fuse with the glaze leaving a smooth, gem-like surface reminiscent of semi-precious stones or ice formations. Each firing yields different results, so each piece is unique. I strive to create work that evokes a calm and peaceful feeling.
These functional pieces may be used for serving a group as well as a single meal. They can be used decoratively. I hope to enhance the everyday ritual of eating, drinking, and living by making it a beautiful and shared experience.
Karen Ford, Ceramic Artist