Asheville in Atlanta 2008
Penny Waters Clark

Penny Waters Clark Artist Statement

I work as a ceramic artist because of the satisfaction and variety in the process and because of my delight in the artfulness of the everyday object. Growing up with my mother’s art had a strong influence on me – she was an artist, art collector, and interior decorator. Throughout our house were her carved wood furniture and other works in metal, clay, and textile – all wonderfully decorated with stylized patterns while also smooth to the touch and meant to be used. A similar aesthetic was expressed in the art of Mexico and Central America that was all around our Texas home.

During my youth and college I had concentrated on drawing and painting – and then after many life detours – I eventually made a conscious decision to get my hands directly into the making of art. So I started working with clay, and then moved to Asheville and discovered a fertile area for studying the many possibilities of ceramic art. Now I am hand-building low-fire, colorful tableware out of earthen red clay using a method of slabs, coils, and pinching. I prefer to make simple and smooth forms such as bowls, plates, and vases that have a lot of surface area to decorate. Then I paint, draw, or stencil on the pots using velvety terra sigillatas, oxide washes, and bright translucent glazes.

Inspiration comes from so many places, including: from other potters, painters, and designers; from plant forms; from interior design; and from the flattened and repetitive patterns on the textiles that I collect. I am also inspired by the pleasures of preparing and sharing good food and good times with family and friends gathered together around the dinner table. I work to make pots that are fun and delightful to see in your home and enjoyable to pick up and use.