Artist Statement
I am a ceramic sculptor living on the Big Island of Hawai‘i. My work is primarily narrative, using porcelain to explore the complexities of the human condition. I often employ anthropomorphic figures as a vehicle to highlight the parallels between animal nature and human behavior. Through my sculptures, I express humor at the follies of humanity while also addressing serious issues such as discrimination, politics, and social constructs.
As the child of a Holocaust survivor, I was raised with the mission of Tikkun Olam — the call to "heal the world." I view my art as a vehicle for this purpose. By blending both humor and gravity, I seek to engage viewers in a way that invites deeper reflection and thoughtful consideration of the issues presented.
To enhance the narrative elements of my work, I use a variety of surface treatments that emphasize different aspects of each piece. In addition to a minimal use of colorful glazes and stains, I employ a surface technique I developed called NakedFauxku. This method replicates the look of traditional naked raku but is achieved in a high-fire, oxygenated atmosphere without reduction. The resulting surface features a cracked, weathered appearance that adds subliminal emotional depth to the work, while offering a level of durability not attainable through conventional raku techniques.