Marienne Chapman

Artist Statement

An exploration in texture:

I revel in the details when creating ceramics. Whether I'm placing a constellation of tiny dots on an urchin or vase or making a mountain of ceramic sprinkles (each one lovingly cut and colored by hand), every motion and color is painstakingly thought out. This detail and precision is the art. I can easily lose myself in the process. Dotting lines and form with repetitive motions and visuals is a joy for me.

Then, there's the tactile feeling in your hand of the object itself, covered in raised dots or painted slip. That's what it's all about. You can't help but pick it up and feel the texture. Roll it around in your hands. Run your fingertips across the surface. There is joy in that as well.

But what is joy without a bit of whimsy? Enter: The donuts! For all the seriousness involved in the detail, there has to be humor in my work as well. Who doesn't look at a donut and smile and want to take a bite right then? That's my goal. I want to evoke cravings and serenity, beauty and a smile. Mostly functional, but all works of art and one of a kind.