Carnival Series
This body of work delves into the realm of unsolicited psychological experiences, forged from fears, loss, and discontentment that can hold precedence in our daily lives. Even when the physical sources of these issues vanish, an underlying apprehension lingers, controlled by the enigmatic depths of the unconscious. The progression from a tangible threat to a mental maelstrom, as we strive to reclaim a lost sense of balance, ultimately traces its roots to a yearning for the innocence of childhood. I employ clay as a vessel to manifest ideas that reside within my mind, bridging the divide between inner thoughts and the external world. My fascination lies in the intricate interplay of subconscious and conscious forces that shape the mental landscape of an individual.
This collection explores the art of masking our emotions, addressing themes of life, death, fertility, and transformation—territories that defy explanation, comprehension, and control. Hanging arms suspended from wires evoke a sense of helplessness, while symbols like pigs, butterflies, skulls, and frogs, often inspired by my dreams, serve as metaphors in my work. In Asian traditions, frogs bridge the gap between the living and the deceased, while the frog goddess Heket symbolizes life and fertility in Ancient Egyptian culture. Some cultures perceive black and orange monarch butterflies as carriers of the departed, and skulls in Latin traditions are employed for prayers and remembrance of loved ones who have passed away.
My figurative ceramic sculptures beckon to the inner child within us, with their use of vibrant colors and whimsical nature. Yet, upon closer inspection, innocence yields to the complex realm of adult emotions, often triggered by encounters with tragedy.
Regenerate