Process and Inspiration

I make intricately carved, functional pots to celebrate and bring elegance to everyday life. I am inspired by nature in all its aspects: the diversity of flora and fauna, habitats, seasons, and most importantly, the embodiment of life, growth, and vitality.
Although I enjoy capturing detail, often—rather than attempting to represent the specific—I seek to explore quiet, metaphorical expressions of life. I am greatly influenced by ornament, calligraphy, and historical patterns in textiles, metal work, and botanical prints. I appreciate the beauty and value of old things, believing they speak to and enrich us in our time.
I work with mid-range porcelain, which offers durability as well as a smooth surface for detailed decoration. Each one-of-a-kind piece is wheel-thrown and decorated entirely by hand, primarily through carving, as well as the application of slip and, occasionally, 20K gold luster. I explore textural patterns in my work through incised ornament, movement, fluid lines, and a peaceful palette of transparent glazes.
Seeking an ideal union between the useful and the ornamental, I make pots for the simple joy of creating and hope to share that joy with those who use them.
Although I enjoy capturing detail, often—rather than attempting to represent the specific—I seek to explore quiet, metaphorical expressions of life. I am greatly influenced by ornament, calligraphy, and historical patterns in textiles, metal work, and botanical prints. I appreciate the beauty and value of old things, believing they speak to and enrich us in our time.
I work with mid-range porcelain, which offers durability as well as a smooth surface for detailed decoration. Each one-of-a-kind piece is wheel-thrown and decorated entirely by hand, primarily through carving, as well as the application of slip and, occasionally, 20K gold luster. I explore textural patterns in my work through incised ornament, movement, fluid lines, and a peaceful palette of transparent glazes.
Seeking an ideal union between the useful and the ornamental, I make pots for the simple joy of creating and hope to share that joy with those who use them.
From "Thirst for Beauty, Thirst for Soul" |
Copyright 2021 Grace DePledge. All rights reserved.