JoAnne Vogel - Ceramics

JoAnne Vogel
722 Atalanta Ave.

Directions: from Marshall & Laclede Station, head West on Marshall, turn left on Summit and right on Atalanta

Artist Statement
The inspiration for my work is drawn from the incredible wealth of shape and pattern found in both our natural surroundings and the human body. I had always been fascinated by the beautiful balance of nature; however, a two month trip to Niger created a shift in my choice of material and subject matter. Being surrounded by nothing but dry, red earth and sand causes one to crave even a hint of color and pattern, and while living there, I found myself actively searching for it in my surroundings. I became fascinated by the contrast of the intense patterns found in the local fabrics, the unusual textures in the piles of dried goods in the market and the miles and miles of dry, red earth. Upon returning, I was drawn to the red terra cotta clay which served as a perfect background for the pattern and texture I had spent so long observing. These patterns and textures have appeared in my work for over a decade, and although I know they have and will continue to change, I feel that they are an integral part of who I am as an artist.