About Autumn
In her Quebec studio, ceramic artist Paula Murray uses her own recipe for porcelain clay that she hand-shapes into intricate pieces and permits the natural drying tensions between her mediums to create unusual abstract shapes. Inspired by forms and patterns found in nature, Murray’s work often reflects the spiritual connection between humans and the natural world.With its rich burnt orange colour and brown veining, the Autumn vessel represents the season it’s named for. Part of Murray’s ‘Furl’ series, this finely detailed curled porcelain piece pushes the boundaries of traditional fired clay.
“Chrysalis is defined as the 3rd stage in a butterfly’s life cycle, symbolizing spiritual release from the bondage of the physical world. My furled forms, like a pupa, are the tangible remains of a remarkable transformation. My process pushes me forward as I work with change over time. As the clay reacts, I respond. Detaching from my desire to control the outcome, risking loss, open to possibility. When a piece survives the final glaze fire, it quietly bears witness to a remarkable story.” Paula Murray
She has received many honours and international awards and was elected into the RCA in 2006. Murray’s work has been gifted by the Canadian government to dignitaries such as US President George W. Bush and UN Secretary Kofi Annan. Murray’s pieces can be found in private and public collections including the Canadian Museum of Civilization, the Banff Centre, the Gardiner Museum, Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec, the Official Residence of the Prime Minister in Canada and Canada House in London, England.
