ARTIST STATEMENT
I create ceramic sculpture that portrays the moment when emotion is being translated using one’s
skin. I explore a variety of involuntary actions such as goosebumps, blushing, folding and
abrasions to draw attention to these overwhelming moments that appear on the surface of the
works. There is a contrast that is created between fixed material that makes up the internal
structure and the soft transparent outer skin of silicone. These materials act as a form of
protection and allow me to suture wounds that are created throughout the life of the work. Much
like a scar upon the surface of the body, these moments of harm will remain.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Kelly Devitt is a ceramic artist who primarily creates sculptures depicting emotions physically expressed through the human body. Born in Iowa, she received her Bachelors of Fine Arts degree in Integrated Studio Arts from Iowa State University in 2017. Shortly after, Kelly continued to work as a Ceramic Research Assistant for the Art and Visual Culture department as well as the Computation and Construction Lab at Iowa State University. In 2019, Kelly moved to New Bedford, Massachusetts to continue her education pursuing her Masters of Fine Arts degree in Ceramics. She has recently accepted a job as a Professor of Art at the Southwestern Community College of Iowa.
© Kelly Devitt