Carolyn Autenrieth
Ceramics / pottery
Artist Statement
My work as a ceramic artist and painter contemplates the transformative process in the natural world and celebrates nuance and surprises found in the ‘ordinary’. The work is part of an investigative process of discovering narrative, metaphor, and beauty (sometimes terrible beauty), to invite a deeper response.
Altered wheel thrown and handbuilt ceramics invite both visual and tactile responses: spiked clusters suggest organic regrowth and change, or decay. Forms are pierced, cut, or altered to enhance organic forms hinting at a place of transition or transformation. The pieces use contrast through texture, light and form to explore metaphors of community, memory, loss, and transformation, while inviting the viewer to construct their own narratives.
Artist Bio
Carolyn has worked in the art field most of her life, she transplanted from the Midwest 35 yrs ago, following an artist she used to work for. A ceramic artist and painter, she was also an Art Educator in public schools for 20 years working with a very diverse range of students who often informed her practice. Now she focuses full time on studio work. In early years she worked in graphic design, illustration and murals, but for the last 15 years has focused on ceramics and painting.
She regularly exhibits in Pacific Northwest galleries and has shown at BIMA, Washington Convention Center, and other regional venues. She will be part of a group installation in Stockholm Sweden this spring. Her paintings and ceramics are in private and public collections nationally and internationally. Carolyn has a BA in Drawing/Painting, BA in Diagnostic Radiography (CT), and a Masters in Teaching. She works from her home studio, in close proximity to nature, and occasionally teaches workshops for adults.