Husk Series #1 (black)

About Husk Series #1 (black)

This contemporary ceramic piece was handmade by Steven Heinemann.

A gifted and technically brilliant artist, the ceramic artwork of Steven Heinemann has pushed the boundaries of ceramic art and afforded him international acclaim.
This series of organic shaped sculptural pieces was made by hand using clay in a special process that involves the application of liquid clay (slip). The rounded exterior skin or ‘husk’ of the piece has an inner form. The exterior skin naturally cracks as it dries and shrinks around the inside form. The matte black exterior features a delicate floral lace design with a black textured weave pattern on top. In nature, the husk or chaff is the protective coating of a seed.

“This series is unlike many I’ve done in that it completely originates on the page, as an idea that occurred while drawing. It can also be dated fairly specifically, to spring of 1977, while working with drawing teacher and mentor Paul Kipps.” Steven Heinemann

“With Steven, you can tell he’s looking at a particular shape or form and exploring it as much as he can in order to discover what shape or form means as a universal concept. I think people are fascinated by that creative process he’s set out for himself.” Rachel Gotlieb, Curator

Steven Heinemann earned an MFA from Alfred University, NY, in 1983 and has taught in Canada and the US. Since his first solo exhibition in 1982 at the Ontario Crafts Council, he has exhibited continuously. Heinemann’s work is held in museums the world over. He has received many national and international awards including the Saidye Bronfman Award, Canada’s highest recognition of achievement in contemporary craft.