Curatorial Statement
Artist’s Reception: Friday, August 5, 2016 from 5-7pm MT
Exhibition Posted Online: Monday, August 8 by 10am Mountain Time
“Devoted to repetition and structure, I have most recently been working in pottery forms as my canvas. Having been inspired to pursue the craft through my father, many of my recent forms are an homage to his pots and a recognition of his influence as a potter, builder and craftsman. My process begins with constructing wheel thrown vessels then dismantling them through carving a facade of structure that often pierces the wall of the pots. The pot form appears built by layers of arches, posts, lintels, and discs. All of which are references to architectural elements that influence me.
The architecture of the pots is reinforced by the surface imagery I paint on the form. I am forever curious about how the painted surface can alter or manipulate an already solidified profile. Using colored engobes, I create two-dimensional shapes that reference arches, cantilevers and other architectonic elements. The color softens the surface and creates an atmosphere of layers that challenge the true lines of the vessel.”
-Matt Repsher