Vernacular Outgrowth

 VERNACULAR OUTGROWTH, inspired equally by geologic formations, prehistoric makers and biological outgrowths, these artists explore the material in its most plastic state while playing with its reference to function and history. The work investigates the theme of Current through an exploration of specific environments and ecologies over time – not just the clay, but also the incorporation of the plants and organisms that grow there or in the elements drawn out and pushed to grow on their own.

 Responsible farming and sustainability are explored in the work of Jacque Adams and Pascal Baudar. These artists delve deeply into the connection between the land where our food grows to nourish us and the functional ware created for a specific use. Utilitarian vessels are often created in studios with great skill and thoughtful consideration of proportion, design, aesthetics and how the maker chooses to use their voice to create such objects. Adams and Baudar explore ways that their specific found clays have a deeper connection to the food foraged or grown directly out of the formed wet vessels.

 As clay artists, we are aware that there is tension at times between functional and sculptural work. As sculptural makers we are often drawn to functional forms as a foundation. In Sabri Ben-Achour and Donna Ropp Robinson’s work, we see that a basic serving vessel, a bowl, is used as a foundation for explorations full of small observations, experiments, and compositions. At times, they are empty yet encrusted in a rich coral-like outcropping of electroformed crystals created by mineral deposits. Another approaches the object as a basin or collection pools full of melted glass evoking natural patterns or landmasses that appear at times chaotic. They create a moment of anticipation and a simultaneous suspension.

Examining clay, minerals, metals, seeds, soil, chemistry, heat, pattern, and a thoughtful approach to their organic growth connects these artists in the current of makers throughout history which is naturally entwined through their participation and acknowledgement of vernacular and organic building processes.