Natasha Overton

Death but Life

Raku

“In my work, I examine my constant struggles with grief through ceramics by sculptures and repurposing my own functional pottery pieces that did not turn out as imagined. Repurposing failed utilitarian objects gives meaning to the initial disappointment at losing time and materials, still making something broken purposeful. The process of molding clay, designating a purpose for it, having the clay redirect your expectations, and having to adapt to what ends up in front of you is much like the process of grief. Loss, disappointment, tears, anguish, wanting to quit, revelation leading to redesigning how resolution looks.”

— Natasha Overton

About the artist

Natasha Overton

American

I began to work in clay 12 years ago in Chicago at Northeastern Illinois University, ceramics came to me unexpectedly. I was an art history major looking for an easy studio art credit to fulfill my pre-requisites for my degree. To my shock and delight ceramics wasn’t easy and the clay was electrifying. After the first week of my Intro to Ceramics class I was hooked. After the first month I changed my major to sculpture and ceramics. I was inspired to learn and experience clay and since then I’ve been dedicated to refining my technique and aesthetic in clay. My journey as an artist has not always been smooth but I’ve always been able to maintain my connection to clay. Im a proud member and Vice-President of the Toledo Potters Guild and I’ve been part of the artist community of the Collingwood Art Center for the past nine years. I have been a three time recipient of the Edith Franklin Foundation Scholarship and a 2022 recipient of the Accelerator Grant.