There are two things that I most enjoy about clay. One is being able to work on the potters wheel. I get a sense of accomplishing something physically gratifying when I am able to complete a form I choose. The other is sculpture. I feel connected with the medium when I can push, pull and indent the substance into a representational detail. I begin each piece by drawing or envisioning the design. Next, if it is part of the concept, I throw the necessary pottery shapes on the wheel and allow the form become slightly stiffened overnight or longer. When the clay has approached the desired consistency, I sculpt and add pieces, join forms together, and dry to prepare for the two or more firings that follow. I use different colored mixes of clay that have the same rate of shrinkage. I also weld together steel armatures and utilize wood and other materials for mixed medium sculptural pieces. I consider my work to be an 'urban folk art' style. Although I have formal training in art, I strive to emulate the feel of works by regional folk artists, ancient artisans and indigenous people of the world. I blend these influences into an eclectic representation of my belief in our common connection through the arts. My focus is contemporary. I give most of my works anthropomorphic qualities, or characteristics of humans. I am influenced by the people around me, and they become subjects of my work. I appreciate that people smile, laugh or even look perplexed when they see my work. I also work with two dimensional forms, inspired by Neo cubism, surrealism and other modern art styles.

Contact me at: Bruce@brucefontaine.com

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