Fort Washington, MD

When I was in high school the Olympics were in Barcelona, Spain, and I became obsessed with everything Spanish. Flamenco Dresses were my main focus, little did I know this was a superficial glimpse. In my university years, a PBS special introduced me to the art of Islamic Moorish Spain. The dazzling beauty of the architecture, colorful tiles, and plaster further deepened my love for Spanish Culture & History. One might see echos of my BFA in Fashion Design in my pottery. Clay and Fabric have much in common, when used as a blank slate. Clay can be rolled flat, templates cut, and a 2D form is suddenly a teapot or vase, much like a garment. When paint is applied the form really comes to life, further mimicking fabrics. I became a full time potter in 2023, after purchasing a wheel, and leaving my community Rec center for a home studio. Suddenly mugs, vases and platters emerged, and they needed surface treatment. I decided to explore the art and architecture of Moorish Spain in my pottery. The daunting task of tackling the intricate geometry was a little intimidating. I dove right in and my unique aesthetic emerged, which I call Gestured Geometry. With a combination of paint brushes and precision applicators, through underglazing I create dreamy scenes of my interpretation of the Moorish Aesthetic, full of color, texture, archways, tiles, and carved plaster. I view my work as an extension and continuation of the vast range of the Islamic Art tradition, seen through the eyes of an all American girl. My Feature Wall Vase, seen in my portfolio is in direct reference to the Grand Architectural elements of Andalusian Spain. The bold Geometry and Archway shapes provide dimensionality. This piece is special, to me its a culmination of historical references and whimsy. I don’t have a plan when I begin to underglaze my surfaces, I freehand everything, the varied surfaces of my work don’t allow for precision or templates . Filling my canvas with a stylized interpretation of the grandeur and intricate detail of Moorish Spain and Islamic art is my passion.