Woman & Magpie II
My sculptures are based on images of women and animals that resonate with me visually, emotionally or spiritually. These images may be seen in life, in other artist’s work or in books and magazines. I am fascinated with the birds I encounter on walks with my dog — such as crows, yellow–billed magpies, hawks, and roadrunners – as well as the jackrabbits and coyotes I have seen locally and when living in the SouthWest. I visit museums and galleries on a regular basis and also peruse a variety of art and wildlife books and magazines for inspiration, never knowing when I might spot a potential pattern or image I need to incorporate into a sculpture.
Like many artists, my influences and focus are largely the result of childhood exposure to images that resonate with me, such as geometric patterns and bright colors from stained glass windows at church and women who are strongly reminiscent of statues of the saints and the blessed virgin. I particularly am drawn to depicting faces that are serene and compassionate, like those I viewed as a child.
Working with clay is very rewarding, not only for its tactile properties but also for the process of watching the artwork within it emerge. Sculpting has opened a door for me to explore the natural world and to feel a deeper connection with a larger reality. It has become a lifelong learning process, not only in sculpting, glazing and firing techniques, but also in exploring other cultures and looking more closely at the world around me.
To see more of Jeanette’s work go to www.howlingwoman.com
Paisley