Karen McGady,
Chimera Ceramics and Sculptures,
Crofton, Maryland
Email: ChimeraCeramics@gmail.com
Artist Statement:
Symbols and monsters figure in my sculptural work: dragons, Chimera, walls with holes. My more functional work, which is also often decorative, is most often one of a kind in form and decoration, making each piece a bespoke work of art.
Studio Description:
My studio is a place for me to retreat and think about what is going on inside me, emotionally, intellectually, and cognitively. Peaceful and cool, it gives me a safe place to play with ideas and form making.
What type of clay do you use?
Porcelain, dark brown stoneware, and colored slips.
What temperature do you fire to?
Cone 10.
What is your primary forming method?
Lately, slabs and handbuilding are my preferred methods, though I throw clay, too.
What is your favorite surface treatment?
Mishima and colored slip
Do you make any of your own tools?
Yes. I have been making bisque stamps and bisque slump molds. Plaster casting molds are coming!
What one word would you use to describe your work?
Unique.
What is your favorite thing about your studio?
The quiet and cool of my basement studio is what I crave.
What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without?
My imagination.
What are your top three studio wishes?
1. A kiln of my own
2. A wheel of my own
3. A puffer for reclaim
What’s on your current reading list?
The book created for the Tintoretto exhibition at the National Gallery of Art is on my list.
How do you save money on materials and supplies?
I reclaim clay scraps, and make some of my tools for forming clay.
How do you recharge creatively?
I recharge by going to art museums, by walking outside, by looking at art done by my friends, and by taking classes at my local community college.
Do you have any DIY tips for studio efficiency?
Extra buckets and clear tubing are great for drawing excess water off the reclaim bucket.
What did you first piece look like?
Oh, my first piece was a LONG, LONG time ago. I took a lump of clay and pressed my hand into it. I was 5 years old. I glazed it bright red.
What ceramic superpower would you have and why?
My clay superpower is to make huge installations and have them last forever!
Who is your ceramic art mentor and why?
Rick Malmgren. He is fantastic and knows many talented artists.
What is your studio playlist?
Meditative New Age music, Mozart, Jimi Hendrix...lots of artists present and past.
Why do you create art?
I create art because I MUST. The thrown work is meditative, and the sculptures I make are reflections of my inner voice.
What is your best studio tip?
Go to the studio. As much as you can. Go every day if you can. Use your eyes and hands to make things that reflect on your inner voice. Do not compromise.
If you could change one property of clay, what would it be?
I rally don't know. Clay is grounding, and should stay that way!