The Sentimental Question
Beth Cavener Stichter is a ceramic artist living in Montana. Born in California she studied science until
her senior year when she switched majors, graduating with a BFA in Sculpture
from Haverford College. Sher received her
Master’s in Ceramics form Ohio State University. During this time, she began working with
animal forms.
"Please Don't go..."
Her work references our animal nature that lies within us
all. Using animal forms in conjunction
with human anatomical parts or situations.
She states, “the things we leave unsaid are far more important than the
words spoken out-loud to one another. I have learned to read meaning in the
subtler signs; a look, the way one holds one’s hands, the incline of the head,
and the slightest unconscious gesture. I rely on animal body language in my
work as a metaphor for these underlying patterns, transforming the animal
subjects into human psychological portraits.”
Bliss
Beth Cavener Stichter finds inspiration from characters of
people from everyday life, or at least they partially take their inspiration
from people she meets. Her perceptions also influence the way she views people
or emotions so her work is also partially self-portrait like. Creating several pieces of work around a
common theme, emotion, or idea allows time to really think about an idea.
The Sanguine 2
Husk
She talks about self-doubt, anxiety and depression heavily
influencing her work. I can relate to these
ideas and feelings and see how they must have pushed her to this level. The ideas in her work relating to the
primitive animal within are relatable and beautifully done. The characters she creates seem to have a
life and real personality. They are not hyper
realistic but convey ideas very well. She
also has a petreon where you can support her efforts and I will put a link
below.
Triomphe
She builds using large armatures wrapped in electrical tape and wood dowels. Sometimes working with 2000 pounds of clay for one piece. Once sculpted her pieces are cut apart and hollowed out. They are fired in pieces and reassembled with epoxy and painted after firing.
