Ilena Finocchi

Toying Menace
ceramic

Clay is the connection to my childhood and means of communicating in a way I cannot in words. My sculptural work is built from a playful, adventurous childhood and the unassuming confinements of adulthood.

My work is about creating sculptures that explore metaphorical symbols which are personal reminders of my past and how the presence of adulthood interacts with those memories. The metaphor of the bird is used to represent myself. I chose which birds would best represent the reference to my past and present self.

There were certain aspects of my childhood that gave me a unique perspective on the world. I would play with everyday objects and without realizing it, I would transform them into personal metaphors. Working with clay allows me to travel to that place in my mind where play, creativity and hope are nourished.

© Ilena Finocchi