Stephanie DeArmond
My practice is rooted in writing, nature and the timeless craft traditions of clay. I find much comfort from holding objects made by hand, and through the act of making. The solid nature of a unique piece of ceramics affirms my values of authenticity and truth. My work uses fingerprints as a central motif. I pinch slabs of porcelain into shapes, then carve images of botanicals, birds, animals, song lyrics and symbols into the surface. Capturing a unique image and using it to send care into the world is my goal in making. I find hope and solace in art, poetry, and nature. I live in an area near many wonderful parks and natural areas, I can walk there to look at trees and watch birds and it always leaves me calmer. I love learning about native plant species and incorporating that into my work. I have been lucky to show my work, be it sculptural letterforms or hand-built pottery, in many venues in the US and internationally. I have taught ceramics classes for many years. In making my work, I search to express unease and doubt, and also the delight of human connection.
