| |||
|
Jeanette Morrow, ceramic sculptor
www.howlingwoman.com My fascination with clay began in the mid–1990’s when I discovered it as a way to pursue my obsession with making masks. I had become intrigued with the mask form while studying Eskimo ceremonial masks in an art history class two decades prior. There is something otherworldly and spiritual about masks that are used in ritual ceremonies. For me, mask making is a way of exploring the human connection with nature and the spiritual world. Soon I was sculpting not only masks from other cultures, but also masks that feature the birds I encounter on walks with my dog — such as crows, yellow–billed magpies, owls, and roadrunners — as well as the flora in which the bird is found — such as oak tree branches, desert plants, and gingko leaves. More recently, I have expanded my repertoire to include figure sculpture. My recent obsession with goddess figures allows me to explore my favorite themes in 3 dimensional form, plus affords me the opportunity to create geometric designs on their gowns — a process that is endlessly absorbing. Working with clay is very rewarding, not only for its tactile properties and the ability to watch the artwork within it emerge, but also for the myriad of other benefits that it affords. Sculpting has opened a door for me to explore the natural world and to feel a deeper connection with a larger reality. It has become a lifelong learning process, not only in sculpting, glazing and firing techniques, but also in exploring other cultures and looking more closely at the world around me. As a registered nurse and nurse practitioner, I have dedicated myself for decades to caring for others. Part of my journey has been one of finding a creative outlet that would nurture me and support my larger goal of helping others. My intent is that my masks and sculptures bring pleasure and joy to others and serve as an extension of the healing–force. |
||
| |||
