Whimsical Notes

Jane Kavanagh Morton

Ceramics

227 Cheltenham Road
Newark, DE 19711

302-368-9423
www.janekav.com
janekavanaghmorton@comcast.net

Artist Statement

YouTube video "Celebrating the Spiral"

When observing a spiral, an illusion exists, the possibility of forever. The curve of the spiraling mollusk shell encourages the eye to move and invites the viewer to follow.   I have chosen the spiral form to create sculptural representations of growth.

I am inspired by the mollusk shell.  Just as the mollusk turns itself outward for growth, we as individuals expand our lives with each outward reach towards others.  Adversity affects the growth of the mollusk and impacts the shell.  Adversity in our lives, gives us pause and our relationships are enhanced or disrupted. 
Sculptures of the mollusk shells are built by the use of coiling and pinching to obtain the curve of the spiral.  Each mollusk's shell has its own particular design and color pattern depending on nutrition, sea water, and any adversity he encounters.  Because of the diversity of surfaces of these shells I have explored surface treatment with terra sigillatta, oxide washes and burnishing to find a compliment to the surfaces.  Continuing the search for an organic coating for the shells and spirals includes investigating gas firings in addition to multiple firings in an electric kiln.