Patricia Mullins

I view the approach to my artwork as one which combines the sculptural elegance of form with the complexity of design in order to capture and bring ones attention to a moment of stillness.

I began be wheel throwing the forms with white earthenware clay. I design the clay with a variety of hand carving, stippling and incising procedures. These are accomplished solely with the use of simple carving and needle tools. I hand burnished that remainder of the piece with polished stones to create a smooth medium glass surface.

The pieces are then fires in oxidation to achieve a soft white surface or fired in reduction for a mellow black sheen. I’m interested in the contrasting nature between black and white, the positive and the negative space and the resulting effects of both. I prefer a non-distracting solid background that supports the form and design, allowing ones eye to perceive the natural feel of the piece.

The artwork is accomplished without the benefit of molds, stamps, lasers, templates or assistance.

Finally, the designs are executed freehand. They come to me in dreams, feelings or observations while in the midst of creating the designs themselves. I’m looking to connect to something within me that causes these pieces to reflect a certain timeless nature. I would like to think that as one gazes at the artwork, that the artwork looks back as well, creating a feeling of peace.