Michael Martone

I work with ceramics and photos. The process of molding raw materials and using my lens to create functional and aesthetic forms serves as a bridge to connect life and nature. I sculpt using coiling, slabbing, wheel throwing, and pinching, which are all ancient pottery techniques in pottery that I often incorporate into my sculpting process. I photograph bold textures and colors that bring a contemporary feeling to my work and connect with modern ceramics and glazing as well as photography. Working with clay is a therapeutic process. Manipulating clay has a calming effect, and the focus required in the creative process is a form of stress relief because it draws my attention away from my struggle with mental health.

Capturing a photo brings a sense of accomplishment and personal satisfaction to my life. Many artists, myself included,  find inspiration in the organic forms, textures, and colors found in the natural world. The shapes of leaves, the patterns of rocks, or the colors of the sky can be translated into unique ceramic pieces and photos. Through ceramics and photography I invite viewers to connect with the elemental and timeless aspects of our shared human experience by examining my work. As well as seeing a deeper appreciation for the beauty of the simple act of shaping clay into art and shaping a photo.