Abstract

Certain aspects of current society threaten to hinder a more positive future. Blinded by the glory of consumerism, a majority of humanity has lost touch with what could be considered true happiness and prosperity. Disconnected from the natural world, struggling with a lack of understanding and appreciation for the simplistic beauty of life, modern man has come to accept consumerism as an inadequate substitution. Excessive focus on boastful consumer products perpetuates harmful behaviors and fuels negative mentalities, ironically resulting in lower qualities of life. These products and services are offered in an attempt to provide entertainment and comfort. However, their rewards are hollow, rarely invoking more than fleeting moments of happiness and temporary escape, while real health and satisfaction are seldom found. As an ongoing dilemma, similar concerns have troubled art and academia for centuries; specific examples include the writings of William Morris in 1884, social historian Peter N. Stearns, and the artworks of contemporary artists such as Duane Hanson and Chen Wenling. Through sculptural ceramics, it is possible to express these current struggles while simultaneously suggesting solutions. Working with a fundamental natural element, such as clay, provides a satisfactory vehicle for the conveyance of this concept. By manipulating a simple organic material, forms are created that exaggerate and emphasize certain suggested objects of modern misguidance. In this manner the pure medium of clay reflects on truth and health, while the resulting content ironically addresses the opposite. Through this body of work that presents the absurdity of current behaviors, the intent is to stimulate a questioning of values while provoking humanity’s realization of a desperate need for a better direction.

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