"Small Pods" Commemorative Cup XV, 2003 copper, colored pencils, patina 16 x 15 x 7" Photo: Helen Shirk

The landscape and my response to it have strongly influenced my holloware for the last 15 years. In each piece I try to create the feeling of sensuousness, Strangeness, and vitality that I find in the natural word. The series of standing cups reflect my respect for the history and use of functional pieces as well as their potential to commemorate what I find inspirational and intriguing in my life. I enjoy the challenge of physically manipulating metal, of constructing the three dimensional object and then manipulating its mood with color to suit my intention. The parts of each piece are orchestrated to create an intriguing and seductively energetic natural world.

"Lime Pod" Commemorative Cup XIV 2003 copper, colored pencils, patina 13 x 14 x 9" Photo: Helen Shirk