Tristaware by Trista Chapman
Currently I am working with low-fire earthenware clay and a large palette of underglaze colors. I use the potter's wheel primarily, with a good degree of mold work. This includes press-molding with slabs and casting. A lot of my work is then assembled by stacking parts and adding feet as well as playful knobs and handles. My work has evolved from a simple approach to a more layered and complicated process involving sgraffito and painting, both free from and deliberate. I have a whimsical approach to both form and surface treatments, yet my work still remains primarily functional.
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When you first see my work, the forms of the pieces are obvious in their function. The surfaces look very colorful, and upon closer look reveal layers with checkerboard patterns and hidden sgraffito symbols. These symbols were used for communication by hobos and drifters during the Great Depression. Most of the symbols are from the United States, but some are European. I am looking to add more symbols to communicate to a more global audience. In addition to these symbols, I try to take a playful, light-hearted, happy approach to my work so that it gives off positive feelings. I like to think that my work makes people smile, and everyone can relate to that.