ArtTrail

Renata Wadsworth

I strive to make pots that are balanced in function and form. Please visit my studio, watch a throwing demonstration, and check out my wood and veggie oil kiln!

On Saturday, October 8th, visitors will get a chance to see part of the kiln loading process and tour the studio and kiln shed. Sunday, October 9th we will begin a 25 hour firing in our 60 cubic foot wood kiln. Wood firings are historically a community event and we are thrilled to invite the public  from 11am-5pm to come and see what goes into the process. (Parents are asked to keep a close eye on their children). On October 15th and 16th fresh pots from the firing will be on display and for sale in the studio!

CONTACT INFORMATION

phone:

607-227-4272

e-mail:

renata@nataspots.com

website:

www.nataspots.com

ADDRESS

379 Gunderman Road, Spencer, NY 14883

STUDIO DIRECTIONS

From 96B South from Ithaca, you will travel a bit more than 5 miles, look for Gunderman Road on your right. Turn right on Gunderman and continue approximately 2 miles. You will then see my home and studio on your left hand side.

ARTIST’S STATEMENT

My work is inspired by the joy and wonder of relationships, both alive and inanimate. How will the placement of a handle or design on the surface of a mug affect how it feels in your hand? Will the random dusting of wood ash and variation of surface texture invite you to sit with your tea for a few more moments? Countless relationships develop from a simple lump of clay.

I aim to make pots that are balanced in function and form. Each piece is begun on the wheel, where the initial character develops. There is much repetition of movement, however it's the mystery that no two pieces turn out alike that I celebrate in each one. My finished pots have smoky, speckled, spotted or iridescent surfaces. These effects caused by 'carbon trapping', come to life in the firing process, representing a union of what I can and what I cannot control or predict.

Working with clay has taught me to be flexible. With the rising cost of propane, I built my new kiln to fire with wood and used vegetable oil. Each firing is an experiment producing surprising results that bring new ideas, challenges and relationships. Every day, I find inspiration just outside my studio window. There my kiln stands proud, awaiting the opportunity to tell her story with and through my pots.