ELLEN BLOMGREN

I use the ceramics medium to tell a story. As I mold the clay into the form I’m trying to achieve, the mythology will evolve. Every cut into the clay reveals another layer. I embellish it with textures and details. Next the story is colored, enhancing every detail. Once installed, the narrative can be read in it’s entirety.

Each of these works speak about an individual issue, yet as a series, they tell a larger story.  They interact with the viewer to evoke thought about the earth as our home, animals as our tribe and our accountability to them. The work has a darkness to it, yet a playfulness as well. Each character has it’s own personality and gesture. Some pieces pieces have a hollow, or negative space which touches on the fear of revealing the truth or looking within. To look inside we must acknowledge that we are each responsible.

My inspiration comes from my love of wildlife and nature. At a time when people are doing so much damage, it’s hard to think that one person could make a difference. Through my work, I hope to do just that. My intention is to awaken in each viewer the motivation to look in the mirror and make even a small change.