ARTIST STATEMENT
Having started out as a printmaker who later gravitated toward ceramic sculpture, I have continually looked for ways to combine the processes. These vessels are recent results of this experimentation.
They began by making small abstract paintings on newsprint paper with under glazes, keeping in mind the reverse aspect of printmaking. These images are then transferred to the smooth ceramic surface of the vessels. Basically, the newsprint functions as the “plate” and the clay functions as the “printing paper.”
After the image is transferred, I go back and work into the surface of the clay with carving, incising and texture. It then goes through the firing process with more detail and color added after the bisque firing and before glaze firing.
These pieces are the steps toward incorporating this process into larger sculptures.
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, and teaches at the Art Students League of Denver.
© Gayla Lemke