I work predominantly in ceramic sculpture and installation. In my recent practice, starting from direct observation, I make sculptural compositions of hand modelled porcelain objects that address ideas of beauty, temporality, and consumption through the tradition of the still life.
Current studies of ornamental bulbous plants and other garden flowers are intended to be both ordinary and iconic; my hope is to transform re-present these botanical forms. My process, characterized by study, care, and duration, is central to the intent of the project, and is founded in the impulse to study, in this case to study specifically beauty, time, and potential. The close observation of natural yet domestic objects, studied representation, careful making, and attentive presentation, align the work with the tradition of still life. At the same time, the material transformation is intended to invite careful looking, and to signify value and meaningfulness to the viewer. The works are made of stained porcelain.
My earlier installations intended to playfully and decoratively intervene into, dispute, and interact with architectural structures with foliage and garden inspired porcelain ornamentation. I also do some theoretical writing about contemporary ceramics and craft.
I graduated from the Ontario College of Art and Design (AOCA) and the University of Regina (MFA) and have taught at the University of Regina since 1994. I am currently Professor of Visual Arts, Ceramics, and have also held positions of Department Head, Visual Arts, and Associate Dean, Faculty of Media, Art, and Performance (formerly Fine Arts).
Current studies of ornamental bulbous plants and other garden flowers are intended to be both ordinary and iconic; my hope is to transform re-present these botanical forms. My process, characterized by study, care, and duration, is central to the intent of the project, and is founded in the impulse to study, in this case to study specifically beauty, time, and potential. The close observation of natural yet domestic objects, studied representation, careful making, and attentive presentation, align the work with the tradition of still life. At the same time, the material transformation is intended to invite careful looking, and to signify value and meaningfulness to the viewer. The works are made of stained porcelain.
My earlier installations intended to playfully and decoratively intervene into, dispute, and interact with architectural structures with foliage and garden inspired porcelain ornamentation. I also do some theoretical writing about contemporary ceramics and craft.
I graduated from the Ontario College of Art and Design (AOCA) and the University of Regina (MFA) and have taught at the University of Regina since 1994. I am currently Professor of Visual Arts, Ceramics, and have also held positions of Department Head, Visual Arts, and Associate Dean, Faculty of Media, Art, and Performance (formerly Fine Arts).