Scholar Stone (2024)
Woodfired ceramics with feldspar inclusions
Roger Baumann
Accompanying Programs:
An Artist’s Practice: Roger Baumann, Ada Pilar Cruz, and Kurt Steger in Conversation
Free with museum admission
How do artists learn, evolve, and employ their craft to express that which is in their hearts and minds? Why do they make certain technical choices, such as firing in a wood-fired kiln? What are their many sources of inspiration? How does experience change them and their art? Ceramic artists Roger Baumann and Ada Pilar Cruz, together with woodworker and sculptor Kurt Steger consider the many aspects of their artistic practice.
Tea Hut
Roger Baumann:
Woodfired Ceramics
Opening Reception
Saturday, September 7, 3-5pm
Roger Baumann – Artist’s Statement:
The ceramic objects in this collection address the visual and narrative power of texture and the dialogue between surface, form, and containment. The vessels represent an aesthetic statement defining a relationship between the exterior surface detail, and the internal space. I explore a range of forms, drawing influence from nature, architecture, and utilitarian vessel traditions. Of particular interest are naturalistic shapes, where simple expectations of utility inform design and aesthetics.
My work is wheel thrown, extruded, slab or coil-built, and then altered. The forms are carved or impressed with pattern and texture into the damp clay surface. I use high temperature clay bodies containing grog and other inclusions. A variety of slips, engobes, oxide patinas and glazes are applied. Each piece is then carefully and strategically loaded into my kiln.
All of my ceramic works are fired in my hybrid-2 chambered, 200 cubic-foot wood fueled kiln at my studio in Lake Peekskill, NY. I have chosen the process of woodfiring because it is serendipitous; it finishes my pieces in ways that I could never achieve in any other firing process. The seduction of woodfire is relinquishing expectations of a predictable and repeatable result. The firing process is a demanding one. Constantly feeding wood into the kiln for up to 7 days is incredibly labor intensive. The 2300 degree flame moving through the kiln like a river draws with it fly ash which over time, becomes molten and forms a one-of-a-kind finish to my work. Each firing brings with it its own joys and discoveries. This is why after 45 years, I continue to woodfire.
Pond Plate (2024)
Woodfired stoneware with tears of kiln drips unglazed
Roger Baumann
PROUD TO BE SUPPORTED BY
ARTSWESTCHESTER
WESTCHESTER COUNTY GOVERNMENT