Visions In Clay 2024
Mayumi Makino Kiefer
Bio:
Mayumi began her work in functional and sculptural clay, mainly high-fired in wood or gas in 2005. Her “masculine” work, despite feminine themes, is found in museums and private collections around the world, and at NCECA, AMOCA, ArtAxis, and other exhibits. She has won numerous jurors’ choice, best-in-show, first place awards, and received Letters of Commendation from the Ohio House and Senate for her social art works. Mayumi holds a BFA from Ohio Northern and an MFA from University of Oklahoma. She teaches ceramics at Pittsburg State University, KS and focuses on increasing awareness of clay’s importance to society.
Artist Statement:
I work in clay, fire, water and pressure in one of the oldest art forms known to humanity. I enjoy the raw energy of fire and ash as it solidifies into expected and unexpected beauty. As a material, clay has been formed into fertility idols, seed preservers, mugs, plates, vases, bird baths, teeth, joint replacements, space shuttle tiles, bullet proof vests, vehicle and airplane brakes and much more. Yet, I know that clay’s 30,000 year history of importance to society is really just beginning and ceramics are still at the forefront of pioneering creativity. With over 21,000,000 jobs relying on ceramic materials, and as a ceramic artist, I know that the gateway of artistic, industrial, medical and other uses of ceramics is still found in the simple techniques that I teach in the classroom.
Soda Turquoise, 2023
Stoneware, wood fired natural ash glaze, with soda, to cone 11 (2360°F)
8” D x 11” H (including lid handle)
$5000
Perfection in Imperfection, 2023
Stoneware, wood fired natural ash glaze, cone fired to cone 12 or 13 (2383-2458°F)
8”D x 11.5” H (including lid handle)
$5,500
Exhibition Season:
Visions in Clay 2024