Maria Manhattan,
Maria Manhattan Ceramics,
Hudson, NY
Website: https://www.mariamanhattanceramics.com/Email: mariamanhattan@gmail.com
Artist Statement:
My interest is in creating sculptural vases that convey the idea of spontaneous motion - graceful vessels unfurling with a sense of inevitability. Some surface designs reflect the Nerikomi technique, incorporating chance and randomness into the work.
Studio Description:
Two large peaceful rooms on the top floor of building in Hudson, NY with views of church steeples and nearby mountains. It's my world, one I'm always glad to be in. I work every day.
What type of clay do you use?
Tuckers Porcelain and Mid-White.
What temperature do you fire to?Cone 5 or 6.
What is your primary forming method?Slab construction.
What one word would you use to describe your work?Inevitable.
What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without?
Slab roller.
What’s on your current reading list?War and Peace.
How do you recharge creatively?Museums and nature.
Do you have any DIY tips for studio efficiency?Recycle your clay. I finally began doing that because I ran out of clay during the lockdown. It's great to be in on the entire process.
What challenges have you given yourself to overcome?Working bigger. It's more a mental than a physical challenge.
What did you first piece look like?Small bottom heavy thrown bowl.
What ceramic superpower would you have and why?Heal all cracks!
What is your studio playlist?Wide variety of music and podcasts
Why do you create art?I have to.
