Amidst a scene of destruction and devastation a final desperate plea has been made. “But the Gods Did not Answer” attempts to capture the despair, anger, and sense of betrayal that arise when there is no response. This is a mixed media sculpture utilizing raku-fired hand-built ceramics, found objects and rocks/pebbles. 23” x 11’ x 14”
Elijah and the Broom Tree, inspired by 1 Kings 19:4-8 is a polychromatic hand built/found object mixed media sculpture composed of raku fired paper clay with multiple glazes set on Wissahickon schist and with a deadwood pruning of American dogwood. No adhesive is used. (20.5” H x 18” W x12.5” D)
The nine Muses of Greek mythology have long been a source of fascination and, perhaps appropriately, inspiration for me. “Requiem For a Muse” is an assemblage sculpture consisting of nine Raku fired ceramic pieces which draws on both the classic Greek Chorus and the Requiem Choir of western culture to pose the question: “Which Muse, if any, is being mourned?” I can give no guidance. The answer depends upon the viewer. $450.
And All The King‘s Men is an example of what can happen when you go into the ceramic’s studio after having watched an episode of Game of Thrones. It is a 9″ x 8″ x 6 1/2″ Raku fired ceramic sculpture that utilizes three different glazes to help emphasize the faces’ helmets, and coats of mail of the King‘s Men. In many ways it is similar to, but it is not a part of, a series of individual medieval themed pieces that I’m working on. $400.
Here is Opprobrium on display at the JAM Gallery. The opening night was fun, even if the bad weather kept some people away. There is a wide range of art and artists on display so be sure to come out and support their (and my) work. Thanks!
“The Penitent Pilgrim” is an experimental piece which uses a combination of glazes and underglazes to emphasize the conflicting emotions at the heart of the piece. I see the face and body language of “The Penitent Pilgrim” as expressing sorrow and remorse while holding to hope. It is part of a medieval themed series of Raku fired ceramic sculptures. 12″ x 3 1/2″ x 6″. $175.
Just a reminder that the JAM Gallery’s Juried Show opens TODAY! My Raku-fired sculpture “Opprobrium” was accepted into the show and will be on display. The official opening reception will be this Saturday, July 11th from 3 until 8. If you are in Malvern (or are looking for a way to escape the heat) stop by and see my work and the work of several other talented artists. JAM Gallery is at 321 East King Street, Malvern, PA. Hope to see you there!
TOWN MEETING is 9 1/2”x 6 1/2′ x 7′ hand built, Raku fired ceramic sculpture that seeks to capture the spirit, essence, and passion of small town meetings. At first glance, there appears an over-all similarity, but the differences are there,and they are important to the participants.
OPPROBRIUM is a piece of Raku fired sculpture that named itself. The narrow twisted features of the face, the coloring and the expression of haughty reproach, disapproval and disdain are the essence of opprobrium. OPPROBRIUM will be on view from July 7, 2015 until August 29, 2015 at the JAM Gallery, 321 East King Street, Malvern, PA as part of their 2nd Annual Juried Show.
In reality the Well of Souls actually exists. It is a cave inside the Foundation Stone under the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem. But perhaps most significantly, in legend, it is the place where the souls of the dead can be heard as they await the final Judgement Day. FROM THE WELL OF SOULS, an 8’x6’x4′ Raku fired ceramic sculptural piece attempts to capture the feeling of apprehension that must accompany not knowing what the judgement will be, or even when.
John Fansmith 