Artist Statement

Jessica Peterson

My works address the fragility of nature. My inspiration comes from natural homes such as bird and insect nests and the repetition of those shapes in nature. From these nests, such as the cliff swallow, I play with the repetition of the circle which forms the opening of the nests. These also symbolize renewal, as new life is created and the regeneration of nature in each season.

My main clay materials are porcelain casting slip combined with stoneware, where I am able imitate the nests themselves. In hand building solely with casting slip, I can continue to test the boundaries of these already delicate forms. The surfaces of these forms are treated with cone 10 reduction glazes and at other times, spray paint. The bright colors and textures I lean into are suggested from elements such as moss and lichen.

In layering materials through collage and textiles I can see beyond the surface of those forms as well, creating small installations that the viewer can interact with. In painting, I observe another view, this being the place where I can play and interact with the pieces through color, texture, and further repetition.