Jaclyn Walker, Celeste, carved foam, 12x10.5x4 in.
INSPIRATION
I started my series of birds based on balancing bird toys. My theme for my work is about change and the things we go through in life revealing who we are and shaping who we become. This is based on the way my process reveals the form hidden within the material and revealing its inner beauty.
ARTIST STATEMENT
My artwork explores balance and is inspired by balancing bird toys I played with as a kid.
My birds are made of carved foam that goes through the process of many layers of sanding and painting to achieve a smooth surface. Although they are primarily white I often coat them with a pearlescent or metallic finish before giving them a glossy seal. This results in the overall appearance of a ceramic piece that is somehow lighter than air. The wing piece of the bird acts as a counterbalance. The beads and chains I attach are not just aesthetically pleasing, but also serve to properly balance the bird.
I find this process to be quite meditative. The foam being cut away and smoothed out into soft curves. What was once a chunk of material taking shape and gaining a life of its own. I feel as though it mirrors the way we go through life. Although the processes are at times rough and maybe even painful we emerge on the other side a new beautiful creation, with a new center, and a new sense of balance.
I wish for my pieces to cause the viewer to pause and contemplate where their center lies and how their life is balanced. Maybe they too can shed their rough edges and leave with their heart a little lighter.
Jaclyn Walker, Celeste, carved foam, 12x10.5x4 in.
INSPIRATION
I started my series of birds based on balancing bird toys. My theme for my work is about change and the things we go through in life revealing who we are and shaping who we become. This is based on the way my process reveals the form hidden within the material and revealing its inner beauty.
ARTIST STATEMENT
My artwork explores balance and is inspired by balancing bird toys I played with as a kid.
My birds are made of carved foam that goes through the process of many layers of sanding and painting to achieve a smooth surface. Although they are primarily white I often coat them with a pearlescent or metallic finish before giving them a glossy seal. This results in the overall appearance of a ceramic piece that is somehow lighter than air. The wing piece of the bird acts as a counterbalance. The beads and chains I attach are not just aesthetically pleasing, but also serve to properly balance the bird.
I find this process to be quite meditative. The foam being cut away and smoothed out into soft curves. What was once a chunk of material taking shape and gaining a life of its own. I feel as though it mirrors the way we go through life. Although the processes are at times rough and maybe even painful we emerge on the other side a new beautiful creation, with a new center, and a new sense of balance.
I wish for my pieces to cause the viewer to pause and contemplate where their center lies and how their life is balanced. Maybe they too can shed their rough edges and leave with their heart a little lighter.
