As an artist with over two decades of experience in ceramics and the culinary arts, I find myself at the intersection of aesthetics, functionality, and commentary. My journey began as a potter, where I honed my skills shaping clay into functional forms, but I quickly discovered that the medium could be more than mere utility. Plates and platters, often regarded as some of the most challenging creations for potters, became my chosen canvases. Here, I transform everyday objects into expressions of my thoughts and experiences, creating works that are not only visually engaging but also rich in meaning.
My background in the culinary world has profoundly influenced my artistic approach. Working in bistros, fine dining restaurants, and country clubs has equipped me with a unique understanding of presentation and the relationship between food and art. Much like a chef curates a dish, I hope to curate ideas and emotions, presenting them on tableware.
The act of serving whether it’s food or a message remains central to my identity, and I strive to use my art as a medium to articulate my stance on meaningful social, political, environmental issues and both global and domestic conflicts.
In my recent work, I have embraced the concept of themed table settings, which allow me to explore complex dialogues surrounding both contemporary and or historic issues. Each piece is crafted to evoke contemplation about our times, employing ceramics as a narrative tool. The plates I make can bear explicit messages, inviting viewers to confront issues head-on with little effort required, or conversely, be abstracted and muted, challenging the audience to engage deeply, interpret, and reflect. This duality of communication literal verses abstract, I hope creates a dynamic interaction between my work and the viewer.
A common motif throughout my work is the cityscape, a representation of humanity that captures the essence of life. Sometimes, amidst the structured lines and forms, I introduce distortions, symbolizing fragility, uncertainty, and vulnerability. These elements serve as reminders that beneath our façades of civilization lies a tapestry of challenges: inequality, environmental degradation, and societal conflict. Cityscapes invite viewers to contemplate both the beauty and brokenness of our world, hoping to prompt a dialogue about how we coexist with one another and our environment.
As a Marine and Gulf War veteran, I carry a heightened awareness of conflict and resilience. My experiences have instilled in me a profound sense of responsibility to voice my perspectives through my art. This responsibility fuels my creative process, driving me to confront and illuminate pressing issues. I believe that art can be a powerful catalyst for change, fostering conversations that inspire awareness and action. I invite viewers to engage with my art not just as spectators but as participants in an ongoing dialogue about our shared world. Through my work, I strive to serve not only the aesthetic but the essential an invitation to contemplate, discuss, and ultimately, to act and hopefully inspire.
