Beatrice Nathan

I am intrigued by the interplay between humans and the earth and I see my interaction with clay as a microcosm of this relationship. I am interested in how macro patterns repeat themselves on a smaller and smaller scale. The patterns that rivers create are repeated by the roots and branches of trees and by the veins inside each leaf on that tree. The textures that I create on the surface of my pieces can be interpreted from many different scales from macro landscapes to the patterns left in the dirt by insects. Though my vessels are created for ease of use while eating, serving or for contemplation in the home; they are also meant to bring attention to where our food comes from. I use the beauty of natural patterns and sumptuous forms to better understand the layered conflicts involved in our food system and how that food system interacts with nature. This is my way of adding to the national debate we are having about food supply.

Because my art practice is process driven, the rhythm of throwing, trimming, carving, glazing and firing is the key to discovering meaning and depth in my work. I often discover the true intention of the piece during the labor intensive steps. Working within the confines of functional or at least wheel thrown forms keeps my work grounded and sets me free to experiment within these boundaries. Working in this manner allows me to be completely focused on each piece as I make it. Because of this focus the intricacies of meaning and function develop naturally without detailed planning.