Priscilla Hollingsworth, Augusta, GA
If I had lived in another time, I might want my work to appear to be technically perfect, with smooth surfaces seemingly untouched by the human hand. But as a contemporary artist, I recognize that I live in a materially wealthy society in which perfect (but soulless) machine-made replicas can be purchased cheaply in any discount big-box store. I follow in the long line of artists from William Morris in the mid-nineteenth century to the present day who make the antidote to the mass-produced object: the thoroughly handmade object of beauty meant to be present in the daily life of the home.
In the vessels shown here, I am trying to balance ideas about history and our contemporary moment; simplicity and complexity. It’s hard to invent anything – so much has happened, and I draw inspiration about form from books, museums, the internet. But in our increasingly digital world, the obviously handmade form has some extra value. I have simplified the forms I use as a way of enhancing serenity – because the life we usually live seems anything but simple as we are going through it. At the same time, the natural world around us (the one we are abusing!) is rich beyond my ability to invent, so I bring references from biology into my work.
“Creating community” is central to the theme of this show. It’s an apt phrase, because in these times, a community doesn’t generally just exist. We have to build it for ourselves. I have participated in the building of working relationships and friendships with several of the women in this group. The webs of connection have continued to grow as I have done art and teaching projects with the students of these artists.
Artist's web site:
http://www.priscillahollingsworth.com/
In the vessels shown here, I am trying to balance ideas about history and our contemporary moment; simplicity and complexity. It’s hard to invent anything – so much has happened, and I draw inspiration about form from books, museums, the internet. But in our increasingly digital world, the obviously handmade form has some extra value. I have simplified the forms I use as a way of enhancing serenity – because the life we usually live seems anything but simple as we are going through it. At the same time, the natural world around us (the one we are abusing!) is rich beyond my ability to invent, so I bring references from biology into my work.
“Creating community” is central to the theme of this show. It’s an apt phrase, because in these times, a community doesn’t generally just exist. We have to build it for ourselves. I have participated in the building of working relationships and friendships with several of the women in this group. The webs of connection have continued to grow as I have done art and teaching projects with the students of these artists.
Artist's web site:
http://www.priscillahollingsworth.com/