Karen Harris

Ceramic Artist

Ontario Canada

Statement

The Under Construction Sculptural Series explores lines and planes by intersecting architecturally inspired extruded clay fragments, stacking them and building structures that reflect construction and disrepair. Surfaces show age, decay and a passage of time.  Themes of deterioration and despair are juxtaposed with those of rebirth, growth, strength, change and hope. Some sculptures show traces of imagery in the form of partially hidden photographic iron decals which serve to archive memory of familiar objects and landscape. 

When the work was new the structure or simple frame was a way to look through things.  Now the sculptures are portals into nearby spaces, openings to tomorrow. My work explores the present, how it layers with the past, and how it shapes the future.  

ABOUT

Karen began her formal schooling in the Ceramics studio at Sheridan College in Oakville, Ontario.  This was an opportunity to unify her past knowledge, solidify an understanding of the technical aspects of clay, and to concentrate on the elements of design. 

Karen continues to explore functional pottery, and has also initiated a new foray into the sculptural aspects of clay.   Her designs integrate innovative form possibilities with the use of surface texture, pattern, and an intriguing color palette.

Karen’s exhibits during 2012 included showing work at the OCC Gallery (Toronto), Building Art exhibition at Gallery 1313 (Toronto) and the Decent Exposure show at the Living Arts Centre (Mississauga).

 
 

In 2013 Karen showed work in Chronos , a Mississauga  Potters'Guild Show, and participated in the art in action Burlington Studio Tour.  In 2013 and 2104 she also had a booth at Art in the Park hosted by The Oakville Art Society and held at  Bronte Waterfront Park. 

In 2014 the sculpture  Elements merited an Honorary Mention Award at the Oakville Art Society Juried Art Show held at Queen Elizabeth Park Community & Cultural Centre.