Gifts of Art presents Generation Bridge, Mother & Daughter: Ceramics by Jackie & Catherine Stasevich

I grew up in the countryside, surrounded by plants and animals, and my imagery is a reflection of that. My pottery is a celebration of wild and domestic flora and fauna, and of the connections we share with them. In making images and sculpture of birds and other animals, I share a little bit of my personal experiences and respect with others. I am reminding people of the connections we share with our domestic animals and of our mutual reliances on one another. What I put in is my love and respect, my walks through the woods and my quiet contemplation watching a flock or a herd go about its daily business.

I work primarily in wood-fired ceramics to create functional and decorative art. The atmospheric variation from wood firing provides a surface that allows for complex slip and glaze effects and a natural, atmospheric appearance. Often unpredictable, the ash and flashing become murky waters or a foggy morning – at times partially obscuring the animals - as well as the shine of sunlight on feathers, fur or scales.

– Catherine Stasevich