MFA, Kent State University, 2007, College of Fine and Professional Arts / School of Music

This thesis explores my clay sculptures that celebrate the diversity of life that is revealed in natural objects and living organisms in and along the ocean and its shores. Each individual piece is inspired by the multitude of intricate details of sea-plants, coral, driftwood and ocean sea creatures that I have encountered throughout my life. The ocean is a place to explore, contemplate and relax, enjoying the variety nature has to offer. Through the process of creating, my work is at once familiar and strange, projecting a level of wonder and mystery. The pieces are static in the nature of sculpture, yet appear to possess a life of their own cultivating a unique, animated and sensuous presence. These sculptures suggest individuality, a fantasy creature that is inviting in form, texture and color. I chose ceramics as a medium to convey my ideas because of its organic composition and its ties to the environment. The pliable, plastic nature of clay allows me to be playful and spontaneous in my decision making. They are decisions that have been made to draw attention to the mysteries of the ocean and how it provides an endless source of inspiration. These sculptures are to be acknowledged as individual pieces representing a view into my nature, a nature that can be shared and enjoyed by those who are fascinated by the natural world of the ocean and the fantasy of the created object.

Committee: Kirk Mangus (Advisor) Subjects: Fine Arts