ARTIST STATEMENT
I started out as a printmaker and over the years discovered clay. While working in ceramic sculpture is my main focus, my roots as a printmaker are ever present.
Over the past few years I have started playing with combining the two media by using under glazes, slips and stains to do monotypes on clay slabs. The “print” forms the basis for then adding texture, more color and objects to the piece. While these particular pieces hang on the wall, I am also experimenting with incorporating this process onto 3 dimensional sculptures.
As the imagery develops, so too does the concept behind it which is often reflected in the title.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Gayla Lemke has been an active studio artist in the Denver area for many years. She received a B.F.A. from the University of Hawaii and an M.A. from the University of South Florida, majoring in printmaking. Since moving to Colorado, her focus has changed to ceramic sculpture. Working with clay, she has explored figurative, abstract and installation work. In each of these areas, Gayla incorporates a skill at draftsmanship into her work with carving and attention to surface treatment. She often uses other materials, objects and text to tell a story, be it literal or symbolic. Gayla’s work has evolved over the years from personal narrative to include more universal, social and political themes. She is a long time member of Edge Gallery, presently located in the 40West Art District in Lakewood, Colorado. Gayla teaches at the Art Students League of Denver.
© Gayla Lemke