Arch

by Lisa Battle

“My abstract ceramic sculptures are made with intention to celebrate the primal forces of nature—earth, water and fire. Natural landscapes are constantly changing and evolving. I am fascinated by erosion and weathering—powerful processes that dissolve rock into sand, sculpt sandstone arches, and carve out mesas and canyons. In my work, I reflect on the way that life is a constant cycle of change, exploring organic form, line and an undulating movement that is reminiscent of the sensual curvilinear grace of natural objects and landscapes. I love the sensory experience of handbuilding with coils and slabs of clay. The forces of nature also influence my work as my sculptures are exposed to the transformative powers of wind and fire in the wood kiln. The wood firing leads to surfaces that have depth and subtle variations of texture and color, imparted by the movement of wind and fire through the kiln. The result is a visual and tactile experience in which the surface is inherently integrated with the form.”