artist statement

"Born and raised in Michigan I discovered my love of nature as a child but it was while in college I found my passion for clay. My choice was easy…. I minored in Biology and majored in Art.  My artwork reflects a combined love of both nature and ceramics. During my lifetime that passion has earned me honors in art exhibitions, awarded me public art commissions, and provided me diverse opportunities creating and teaching ceramic programs.

While living in Florida I created large-scale ceramic tile murals and sculptures, taught ceramics in my studio and at the Coral Springs Museum of Art, and became a Florida Master Naturalist. I continue to create highly decorated functional and sculptural pottery that intertwines nature with clay.  My treepots resemble branches, bark and leaves while my functional pottery replicates images of birds, insects, plants and animals – all reflecting these combined passions.

I recently moved full-time to Waynesville, NC and have found unlimited opportunities to explore the natural world.  The mountains, trees, plants and wildlife are now the source of my endless fascination.  My art starts out in that quiet place of childhood memories where play and exploration are intermingled.  There is a feeling of wonder and excitement as nature’s secrets are revealed.  It would please me to know that those viewing my work would join me in this childhood joy.

Jan Kolenda