Noggins

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Noggins are works made over the academic calendar of 2013 – 2014, and are the further investigation of ceramic forms begun three years ago. The shapes of these works evolve from the "Cloud" forms developed in Germany in the summer of 2013, but reengage the head form as a source of imagery and content. The work is informed by sculpture of prehistoric and ancient times; international native artifacts, especially African masks; and early 20th Century artists.

Each piece was created from a hand-build, enclosed clay sphere, which, while still wet, is manipulated by hand and with rubber ribs. Sometime during the process, the work seems to take on a life of its own and determines its own final shape. An opening, or openings, is the last element to be determined and often give the works their "human" character. Each piece is roughly life-size.