Paul Terrell / Water and Wood

Artspace Member Spotlight Exhibition

Ceramics

July 26 - August 17, 2024
Elisabeth Flynn-Chapman Gallery

Artist Statement
My interest in Raku fired ceramics is connected to the Japanese philosophy of Wabi-Sabi. The art of finding beauty in imperfection and wisdom in nature; “Nothing is perfect, Nothing is complete, Nothing is permanent.” I embrace the serendipity of Raku fired ceramics. Surface, form, and process are a poetic ritual. My exploration of “Naked Raku” has all of the final slips and glazes break away like a broken egg shell. The results are the contrasting drawings defined by the rhythms of smoke. I often use wood in some part of my process and often incorporate it for contrast and a Zen like focal point.

The 12x12 series was initially created as assemblage in wood as abstract landscape and wood relief carving then pressed into clay. The Small Craft series relates to water and vessels as transport not container. They have been created from Plien Air studies of indigenous birchbark and skin boats from the Mariners Museum Collection.

Website: paulterrellceramicsculpture.com
Instagram: paulterrell9066 | buddyterrell