Artist Statement
Ni aquí ni allá
Terra cotta clay, colored slips, clear glaze fired in oxidation, wood frame
I work with clay because I am enamored with its ability to hold the human touch so earnestly. Its sensitivity to change and its limitations make it feel as though I am always in collaboration with the material, as if it were an ongoing conversation. This dynamic I experience often inspires me to seek out just that, conversations. The origin of the project had stemmed from my curiosity with the American Dream and whether
or not Latin American Immigrants felt if that dream was still achievable. I was fortunate enough to have the Pittsfield High School ESL class participate in the project. The tiles at the top of the piece are reflections of the American Dream painted by the students and members of the community. Though not always the sole reason for immigration, climate change is steadily forcing people out of their countries. Devastating weather conditions exhaust entire communities and countries with fewer resources and infrastructure are hit the hardest. We are all dealing with the effects of climate change in some capacity, some are hit harder than others and it’s not a coincidence. I hope for a future where these students’ dreams become not only reality, but in a world that can sustain it.