Puneeta Mittal,
Glen Cove, NY
Website: http://www.puneetaart.com
Email: puneetaart@gmail.com
Artist Statement:
I choose not to be limited to a small corner that defines who I am and what I must create. I continually draw inspiration from the natural world. The work that I create is influenced by a combination of Western techniques and Eastern aesthetics.
Studio Description:
Private studio with wheels, a slab roller, extruder, electric kiln with outdoor space for atmospheric firings.
What type of clay do you use?
Stoneware, Earthenware, Porcelain
What temperature do you fire to?
A wide range, as needed - low atmospheric and cone six oxidation to wood fire, soda & salt fire
What is your primary forming method?
Wheel thrown with elements of hand building
What is your favorite surface treatment?
Slip work combined with burnished elements for low fire. Textured wood fired with ash deposits.
Do you make any of your own tools?
I repurpose household tools or natural found objects to create texture, as needed.
What one word would you use to describe your work?
Layered.
What is your favorite thing about your studio?
Proximity with space to experiment.
What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without?
Various found objects and tools to create subtle textures.
What are your top three studio wishes?
Expand for more space. A test kiln. Pugmill.
What’s on your current reading list?
ICAN subscriptions, Studio Potter, Art in America.
How do you save money on materials and supplies?
Reclaim & recycle.
How do you recharge creatively?
With a strong belief that everything that is born, grows and withers away to be born yet again - I constantly keep reclaiming and reinventing ideas.
Do you have any DIY tips for studio efficiency?
Divide time between planning and execution judiciously. Organize space for effective movement. Wet work, clay- closest to sink. Fired work near kiln.
What challenges have you given yourself to overcome?
Figurative work is my achilles heel. I take workshops with artists who do figurative work. Self taught 2D and 3D design. Practice, Practice, Practice.
What did you first piece look like?
A wheel thrown bowl that looked like a monk's begging bowl. Almost a teardrop shape! My teacher put me on the wheel first visit at her studio.
What ceramic superpower would you have and why?
Problem solving. Being an educator is the best way to learn about the material/process. Each interaction is a path to resolution of form or surface.
Who is your ceramic art mentor and why?
Elizabeth T Busby, MY first ceramic instructor, friend, mentor - she gave me the freedom to explore.
What is your studio playlist?
NPR; Indian/Western classical, jazz, ghazals...
Why do you create art?
I express my thoughts and feeling in lines, contour and color. Love the exploration of shapes and forms - its a limitless world of ideas!
What is your best studio tip?
Keep practicing. Find an idea and explore. Clay provides unlimited adventure. Perfect amalgamation of science and art.
If you could change one property of clay, what would it be?
Love the limitless options it provides - why change? Plan to keep exploring!