Using rings, links, and patterns sculpted from clay I explore the balance of fragility and strength in these forms.
A few years back, I was watching a documentary about medieval armor, specifically chainmail. It spoke of how this age-old form of protection has been around for millennia and is believed to have been invented by the Celtic people of Eastern Europe , about 500 BC, to protect against slashing blows from piercing weapons.
Being a ceramic sculptor at heart, I got to thinking of how interesting it could be to create chainmail and other related patterns from something so transient and shapeshifting as clay. As a medium, unlike forged metal, clay can be both fragile and pliant. When it’s wet, it’s wildly changeable. In its dry, “greenware” state, it can crumble and disintegrate. After it’s been fired and vitrified, ceramic ware may be stronger but it still cracks and shatters when hit or dropped.
Conversely, links in a chain portray strength. Their connectivity denotes power. Rings locked in pattern, while flexible and fluid - are forever bonded. Ring is sound and connection; strength and repetition.
There is an interdependence between these opposites that feels related to the world at large. Something elemental. Nature relies on the symmetry of strength and weakness to move forward and to evolve.
Making these rings and chains is a zen process for me. I have found that creating the same pattern over and over gives me a chance to become calm and introspective. I am reliant on muscle memory and intuition as I bend and shape, intertwine and connect the coils. And since I'm so focused on creating a predetermined pattern, I find the stress of expectation and judgement melting away.
