Substructures:
Works in Clay
"My
work consists of two distinct forms. First, is that which
refers to functional pottery (teapots, cups, platters). Next,
is that which refers to the figurative form. The unifying
element being the fragmentation of both.
Breaking/disassembling
something that is whole or complete is a violent process that
has become an important part of my creative process. At first,
there was an element of fear involved. This has since evolved
into a leap of faith, similar to that experienced in the firing
process. At some point one must just be involved in and trust
the process.
The
malleability of the clay when moist is evident to all who
have manipulated the material. After firing its malleability
is transformed into a brittle vulnerable state. The fact that
it breaks and fractures easily is also the nature of clay.
I feel a compulsion to push the clay through this metamorphosis,
returning back to the original form, exploiting the beauty
of the fragmented object.
The
human condition continues to be a powerful force in my life.
The figurative pieces demonstrate what the metaphysical self
might look like. Not so organized, proportionate or stable.
Instead the elements of being off balance, disproportionate
and demonstrating multiple influences is being reflected.
Many
of the vessels are about beauty. Some are about the control
of the material. The Gestalt Theory - the whole being greater
than the sum of its parts may be evident upon the viewing
of all my fragmented work.
I
invite and encourage the viewer to bring their personal interpretation
to each of my pieces based on their unique experiences and
life histories."
John
Foster
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