SHAUNA McCANN

The Nurturer

- clay dug from the earth and mixed with sawdust, stone addition for detail - 

LOCATION NO. 7

A work of art based on a combination of female representation. Mother Earth, Gaia, Danu. A nurturer.
One of the most beautiful occurrences that will happen with a sculpture made from the earth, not fired and outside for some time is the elements. It is watching how the sculpture might
change. Will details be blurred? Will the flowing robes fill with water? Will it crack in dehydration?
This work is sustainable as the clay then can be reused again after use. It starts from the earth and then goes back again to earth. Like ourselves. A life cycle.


ARTIST STATEMENT

My practice is concerned with the exploration of clay whilst also investigating the possibilities of a crossover of materials between glass, wood, stone, and metal. I embrace
the techniques and tradition of clay but am always attempting to push the boundaries of this versatile medium. Most of my work is built with porcelain paper clay, yet I dip in and
out of many ceramic processes from throwing to alternative firing techniques. I feel a great connection to working with a piece of the earth and by how the use of the other elements
air, water and fire can transform a piece clay into the most wonderful creations.
Most of my work is derived from emotional responses to experiences and opinions, whilst also revisiting themes of metamorphosis, memory, and storytelling. As I move forward, I always seem to create where urgency takes me.

︎: @shaunamccannceramics