Ritual - Artist Statement

My ceramic practice is rooted in a deep appreciation for the delicate and fragile nature of
porcelain. The word "delicate" carries two meanings that resonate with me: it can imply fragility,
weakness, and vulnerability, but it also speaks to intricate craftsmanship, quality, and
thoughtfulness. My connection to this duality manifests in my use of porcelain clay, which forces
me to confront both my negative and positive feelings associated with delicacy. It is a medium
that is at once challenging and rewarding, and through it, I engage with the complexities of
fragility in both material and self.
As I work with porcelain clay, I carefully control the wheel-throwing process as the material is
easily thrown off-center and requires a more deliberate touch. Most of my work begins on the
potter's wheel, where I carefully throw the body of the teapot and craft the lid and spout
separately off the top of a lump of clay. Each piece is trimmed and shaped, and the handle is carefully attached through small notches. This slow, meditative process encourages me
to embrace the subtleties of the material and to be thoughtful in every action.
My teapots and teacups are not merely functional; they are representations of ritual and
introspection. The smooth, rounded forms of the teapot embody the quiet contemplation that
arises in moments of stillness, like the act of brewing and sharing tea. Through these objects, I
aim to highlight the importance of mindfulness and the deep connection that ritual can foster—
whether between individuals or within oneself.
In making these objects, I find a space within myself for reflection. The process of shaping clay
parallels my own desire to be thoughtful, patient, and aware in my daily life. My work is about
more than just creating functional pottery—it's about exploring the delicate balance between
strength and vulnerability, and encouraging others to consider the rituals in their own lives and the transient nature of existence.