The Vincent Series

The Vincent Series is inspired by my love of the paintings of Vincent Van Gogh. While I love all of his work, for years I've stared at "Starry Night" whenever I could, mesmerized by the movement and texture of that sky, wishing I could find a way to translate it into clay. I have been drawing through slip ('sgraffito') and even carving out the backgrounds for a good while, but several years ago I was given a gift in disguise. I was temporarily sidelined from throwing while I healed from tendonitis, and while I couldn't do strenuous carving, I could anchor my tool in my brace for light, repetitive motions. As I was trying to create a rhythm in my carving, I noticed a resemblance to that elusive design I had loved for so long, and I realized that Van Gogh's sky was created with small strokes of the brush. Why couldn't I do the same with small strokes of the carving tool? I've been exploring it since, and while it takes a lot longer than my other decorative processes, it is deeply satisfying! No two pieces of any of my decorative works are alike - pieces shown are most likely sold, but you can contact the gallery at The Village Potters Clay Center to see what work in this series is available.  Commissions are available, but because of the time involved in creating each piece, and because I balance this with my other production and commission work, I cannot state a standard turn-around for special orders. I do promise, however, they are worth the wait!

Process reel - video by Lindsey Mudge, reel comp by Katie Meili Messersmith

Images, L-R: Tim Barnwell, Tim Barnwell, L.Theriault