I do the work I do to show my perspective of being a highschooler living in America. All my pieces have a common theme whether they look like it or not. For instance my trivet, mugs, and even my handheld popcorn all lead back to the same common theme of favorite things in my life. I love going to the movies with my friends or family and getting a big large buttered popcorn to share; I also love sipping hot chocolate on a cold winter's day sitting around the fireplace with my family.  These ceramic pieces exemplify important aspects of my existence which I believe help me illustrate American culture. 

All my work starts off with a simple sketch. If i didn't sketch out my ideas beforehand my piece would not be well thought out, thus resulting in a messy, boring, and confusing piece of art. I love making spreads in my sketchbook of a sketch, reference images, and color swatches. This ensures that my work stays organized. Even from my first year of ceramics, I always preferred picking neutral colors on my pieces so that they match every room in my house. I like to make most of my pieces with my family in mind. I always question myself before I start and say, “will this match that room?”, “what would mom like to fill that empty spot on the mantel?” I also take in progress pictures and ask my family for feedback. I love to incorporate their ideas into mine because it makes my pieces more special.  With that being said, at the end of my projects, they usually look very different from their sketches.     

    I am currently working on a bust. This is the most challenging piece I've ever made due to its large size and weight. My design is different from my normal style. I took a more gothic approach. I've always wanted to expand my creativity and ideas and I thought this would be the best project to do so. I am exploring the art of carving more than I've ever done before. It's really cool what you can achieve when you step out of your comfort zone. I want the viewer to feel connected more with their inner self. When I work with clay I am reminded that everything in life has memory. You need to be careful what you do with clay just like in life or else it will leave a lasting affect.