Bronwyn Watson

My work in ceramics has slowly evolved over the years first starting out with low relief wall hangings of plants and animals, then changing to 3-D animal heads and now free standing animal sculptures.  I sometimes enjoy discovering the symbolism of an animal and in this way find an added layer of meaning which always brings an element of surprise.  This year (2023) I have started making “composite” animals or Chimeras.   I have always felt inspired by the fantastical creatures depicted in the art of ancient cultures such as the Griffin, the Centaur and the Unicorn.  I have so far made a “Duck/dog”, a Bird/fish and a Tiger/owl. Some of the sculptures are high fired meaning they can be placed outside In the garden and others are meant for a covered porch or other place in the home. As far as my creative process, I start by sketching a figure and then just keep revising while building the animal from clay until it seems right.  I don’t define this any more precisely than to just decide that the shape and expression is what I had in mind and doesn’t need anything else.  My studio is in Siler City at 133 N. Chatham Ave. and you are welcome to come and visit me there during the year. For the Studio Tour I will be showing with Martha Daneks’ at her studio in Bynum.