Art Chowder January | February 2018, Issue 13 | Page 51

Campbell
MUDDY HANDS IN A TECHNO WORLD
Scott Campbell –
By Amy Wharf and Ann Contois
freshman, math and physics major,
from Boise ID
The work I create focuses on empha-
sizing the natural qualities of clay. I
make my pieces simply, using only a
few common tools. I bring attention to
the natural textures, deformities, and
randomness inherent in clay. I want
to communicate that the often-over-
looked realities of life—variability
and imperfection—are intentional,
meaningful and inspire creativity and
uniqueness.
Photo by Elizabeth Kamrowski
The sheer quantity of different clay
bodies, forms, functions and deco-
rating factors draws me in, allowing
my experiences and individuality as
an artist to show. The unpredictable
nature and challenges associated with
clay—exploring the fine balance be-
tween weight, function and the finicky
nature of glazes—entices me through
the struggle I experience finding how
my own style and personality are
reflected in the clay.
My background in the hard sciences
brings an analytical approach to my
creative process. I am able to incorpo-
rate a sense of intention and directness
that is then balanced nicely by the
variations and perceived randomness
involved in the creation of my pieces.
The value of working with my hands
is expressed by my intimate con-
nection with the clay. By physically
touching, manipulating and altering
the form and function of traditional
styles, the fast-disappearing reality
of human creativity and innovation
emerges. The unique characteristics
inherent in clay, when formed by
hand, contradict the constructs of
routine and conformity enforced in a
technological society, and bring unity
and balance.
I create something permanent out
of a material that starts as highly
impermanent. The profound change of
vitrification of the clay during firing
solidifies what started as an abstract
idea into a tangible three-dimension-
al object. This intimate relationship
fostered by the conceptualiza-
tion-to-creation process brings me an
immense sense of accomplishment
and satisfaction that can’t be matched
in any other media.
January | February 2018
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