Kate Marotz
Marshfield, WI
Email: marotz.ceramics@gmail.com
Website: www.artaxis.org/artist/kate-marotz/
Artist Statement:
“The true secret of happiness lies in taking a genuine interest in all the details of daily life.” - William Morris Making functional work brings art into people’s lives in an intimate manner that
helps to disrupt the daily routine. Throughout my day I find pleasure in selecting pots to interact with, this experience is different every day and brings attention and joy to otherwise repetitive experiences. I make pinched stoneware objects that
combine sculptural qualities with functional ware. This is one of the important dichotomies that influence this work and may therefore make the forms both familiar and unfamiliar to the user, bringing genuine interest to the details of daily life
through their use. The process used to create each object increases the tactile quality and makes the work approachable and a little playful. Tension is created by handles compressing forms or the visual weight of one layer pressing down on another.
The organic forms are inspired by chrysalides, shells, seed pods, and other natural vessels. Every vantage point of each piece is different, inviting the user to handle and investigate every object. Some pieces are rather tame, while others verge
on precarious. Modern design influences the final terra sigillata surface that wraps around layers and connects the interior to the exterior. Subtle patterns are only visible upon close inspection, while speckling is reminiscent of concrete or stone.
The objects are both natural and man-made, functional and sculptural, familiar and unfamiliar.
Studio Description:
I work in my garage that my spouse and I converted into our shared studio space.
Stoneware.
What temperature do you fire to?
^4.
What is your primary forming method?
Pinching.
What is your favorite surface treatment?
Terra Sigillata.
Do you make any of your own tools?
No.
What one word would you use to describe your work?
Sculptural.
What is your favorite thing about your studio?
It is an inspiring place to work in.
What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without?
Natural light.
What are your top three studio wishes?
1. To be able to spend more time making.
2. To improve my storage of in progress work.
3. To find time to create a display of all my test tiles so that I may consider the results more naturally.
What’s on your current reading list?
The Vanishing Half.
How do you save money on materials and supplies?
Creating my own terra sigillata and mixing my glaze rather than purchasing pre-made.
How do you recharge creatively?
I enjoy hiking, kayaking, reading, and listening to Podcasts. All of these activities help me recharge.
What challenges have you given yourself to overcome?
To create a unique body of work that mixes sculptural qualities with functional work.
Who is your ceramic art mentor and why?
My professors at UW-Stout: Kate Maury and Geoff Wheeler.
Audio Books, Podcasts, 60s - 70s music. and folk pop.
Why do you create art?
It is what I am passionate about.
