Audra Clayton

Artist's Statement

Exploring people, the places they belong,their connections to each other, and the drive for human comfort and joy drives my work. While working mainly with high-fire, atmospheric, ceramics I explore including additional media such as thread, sawdust, glass, and others. I use the potters wheel not only for creation of comfortable, warm, functional pots but also for creating the elements of sculptural work.  Abstract round forms often nest inside one another or interact in close fitting arrangements evoking feelings of coziness while also creating intrigue about their interiors and technical constructions. My work exemplifies what can be done within and beyond the ceramic medium pushing technical skill to explore more abstract ideas of belonging and connection.