Linda Willard Ceramic Sculptures

The raw material is formless clay from the earth until my hands start to work it into a sculpted vessel or figure. Each piece starts with an idea of shape and size, but with no other boundaries. My finished forms have simple lines that provide a canvas for nature to add its own variations of colour and tone during the vagaries of the firing process. I am equally intrigued by the contrast of black and white as I am by the use of beautiful colours, and I appreciate the dramatic effect created using either.

My interest lies in the unexpected but controlled world of alternative firing where ambient temperature, humidity, or other environmental factors add an element of surprise to the final outcome. I want the finished piece to be pleasing to the senses and for the viewer to feel the energy generated in the process of creation.

Picasso said, “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life” and that is the solace I find in creating, and my motivation for being an artist.