Artists's Statement :

Porcelain clay ceramic sculpture: goddess magic, nature, shamanism, and pagan cultures; influences on my artwork.

With my first clay pot, I was captured by the uncertainty of combining Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. I learned the techniques of functional pottery at the University of Minnesota. I became involved in rural and ecological issues and was drawn to the concept of the Earth as creator, nurturer, and destroyer. My work evolved from a strictly functional aesthetic to a more personal statement.

My porcelain work begins with a composition drawing. A handbuilt porcelain slab vessel is constructed to fit each drawing. Sculpting and carving, I bring the drawing to life. Drawing realistically; using airbrushed color, texture and brushwork, I create a dream-like presence. Each design has its own message. The integration of human "parts" and animals represents the shamanic experience of shapeshifting. The overlapping of images depicts the universality of form, and harmony in nature. Humor and sensuality are sometimes part of a composition. The use of unnatural colors for human images gives them symbolic separation as deities and archetypes. I synthesize the spiritual power of primitive earth-based cultures with highly refined, contemporary porcelain.

I view my work as part of a new global mythos, connected to our ancient mythic structures and relevant to today. My work reflects the drama of life experienced by all creatures, and the human need to connect with Nature's Magic.

"Magic is changing nothing into something, one thing to another, an idea into action or form. Changing a piece of clay from the body of Mother Earth into a form that touches the heart of a stranger is Magic. If you look for Magic to be unusual or bigger than yourself, you may never realize how very near it is! It is your heartbeat, your breath, your voice, and especially the earth below your feet."*  

Nels Linde

HawkDancing Studio

  *Debbie Berrow, Oregon writer and artist