Frank SalianiMontpelier, Vermont

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Red Lodge Clay Center Long-Term Resident, 2007

Frank Saliani is a studio artist living and working in Montpelier, Vermont.

Frank studied ceramics, and received a B.F.A. at Syracuse University, and an M.F.A. from Ohio University. He has participated in residencies at the Carbondale Clay Center, the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts, Millersville University, and the Red Lodge Clay Center.

Central to my work is the idea that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.  Everything in our world is built of smaller parts.  Not just the tangible objects in our lives, but the experiences, relationships, and the ideas that make us who we are.  My work explores the larger relationships and patterns that occur through the interaction of these parts.  Cast from custom molds, each of the forms can be used to create both utilitarian and sculptural work. Utilitarian wares include simple, intimate forms like cups and bowls, and larger more complex pieces like teapots, vases, pitchers and serving sets.  The sculptural work frequently references recognizable objects, without being bound by the constraints of function.  At other times my sculptural work is used to explore the many forms that pattern and symmetry take.  My sculptural work and my functional objects form a kinship, that embodies the larger themes, patterns, and ideas that contribute to our lives, and the smaller objects, moments, and actions, that meld to create them.