Full Article for Printing

People construct an identity/world which we use as context and framework for their work. Let me describe how I see mine.

The beginning of the 21st century offers us an opportunity never before available. We can make anything. Both historical and technical information on almost all previously produced ceramic objects is available in a cornucopia of books, images and physical examples which are accessible to anyone as a starting point. With this multitude of choices, the problem then becomes deciding what to make and how what we make will place one in the continuum of ceramic history. In choosing a style in which to work or the ideas we want to explore, there is no reason why this decision is not a conscious one. In doing it this way, we can also choose our niche in the ceramic subculture. The choice of the niche can either be defined through technique - the traditional way in which ceramic identity is defined - or by aligning oneself with either a formal or ideological movement. An example of a technically based choice would be the decision to work within the “Anagama Subculture.” The qualities of this work are defined by the use of a particular kiln where the decorative decisions are left to the firing process. At the other end of the spectrum is “ceramic sculpture” – which offers the imagery of the art world though seldom the critical underpinnings.

Bennett Bean
357 Route 661
Blairstown, New Jersey 07825
bennettbean@bennettbean.com

 © Bennett Bean, 1990 - 2004