Birch Wind Chimes

Artist Statement: Trying to obtain inspiration and ideas in pottery has led to a new confidence in creating balance and unity in my work. As an artist, my experimentation with thrown ceramics has significantly expanded my variety and originality. An outcome of this process is that I feel a genuine balance between nature and pottery. This piece, Birch Wind Chimes, conveys the unity I have set out to achieve in my work. What I really enjoy about this piece is that it relies solely on nature to function. I took time to measure out the holes drilled, the square birch bark mounts, the strings, the size of the clay cylinders and strips, and the particular heights at which they hang. The combination of the natural wood products and the hand crafted products work in concert to create a fully functional wind chime. The sound it makes is beautiful and it is satisfying as an artist to watch a piece develop into something that you are so proud of.
As a senior in high school, I am so grateful that art programs are a choice for any student who wishes to risk being creative. It has given me a place for growth, experimentation, successes, and failure. These ideals are key for any environment, and have taught me to be flexible and learn from my mistakes. Now that I am considering myself an artist, it gives me a great amount of respect for others works. I know that the planning and choices made are difficult tasks. Ask any artist and they will tell you that they love what they do and I can assure you that I love what I get to do every day.