In 2015 I began a series of clay axes, "Night Axes," and continued to add to the "Tabernacle" series. The night axes are similar to the night vessels and tabernacles I've made before, except in this form they are weaponized. Nearly all of my sculptures have ritual and personal functions- the night axes are more proactive at battling my demons. While my sculptures serve me personally, I operate under the assumption that I am not unique, and that what I find beautiful, truthful or meaningful, others may as well. For me, making "art" is about discovering and sharing what I find l with other people, and in that way affirming our humanity and creating meaning.

All pieces have been made out of clay.
  • Cast your pearls before pigs
    Cast your pearls before pigs
    Clay, paint, composite wire, freshwater pearls
  • Cast your pearls before pigs (detail)
    Cast your pearls before pigs (detail)
  • Messenger
    Messenger
    I made this sculpture out of clay, fired it, then finished it with an acrylic base and oil paints. It is entitled "Messenger." If you look closely at the photo, you can see "messenger" incised on the figure's orange chest. I got inspired to make this piece after looking at some West African wooden sculptures used in rituals... I hollowed out his trunk to make a place for a sacred thought- he rides a rocket/ bullet into space - dressed in astronaut gear- launches a message out into the universe and reminds the maker/sender to remember it. I have always been interested in personal rituals and the way we choose to honor ideas/events/people.
  • Messenger (detail)
    Messenger (detail)
  • Everroot
    Everroot
    This piece is a censor: it is hollow with an opening in the back for sage or a cone of incense to be burned- smoke flows out of the figure's mouth.
  • Everroot (detail)
    Everroot (detail)
  • Night Axe- Insatiable, Consume My Excesses
    Night Axe- Insatiable, Consume My Excesses
    This is the first of a series of night axes- ritual clay axes to be used in the world of dreams and imagination. Of course, these weapons shatter when used in the "real" world. Incised near the top of the shaft is "Consume My Excesses." For every problem there is the right tool, and if you don't have it, make one.
  • Night Axe , detail
    Night Axe , detail
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