Debra Oliva
Michigan

Hand-colored Porcelain. Thrown parts, Altered, and Assembled. Terra Sigillata Surface, Cures Wax Final Finish. Cone 8 Electric-fired
Functional
8.5"w x 3.75"d x 5.5"h

About the Teapot
No microwave oven. Handwashing recommended. Caution: adding boiling water may cause breakage.

Artist Statement
I describe my work as manifestations of the wisdom passed to me from makers throughout history and the new information I continue to seek. I thrive on the excitement of experimentation; each series involves exploring a process, material, or form to express an idea. Particularly inspired by Japanese art and craft traditions, I endeavor to create work that is an updated and personal interpretation of the qualities and spirit I appreciate in that aesthetic. Using form, line, color, pattern, and texture, I endeavor to convey a quiet yet strong temperament in a visually captivating, meticulously, and lovingly executed object.

About Debra
Debra Oliva earned a BFA from Northern Illinois University. Following school, she was a graphic artist for over a decade. After relocating to Michigan, Debra began her journey with clay. Her ceramic education developed over years of classes, artist workshops, and her own experimentation. She has been creating in her home studio for 33 years. Over several years she taught children and adults and presented workshops for various Michigan art centers and ceramic organizations.
Driving her journey with clay is an insatiable curiosity and the excitement of discovery. She creates utilitarian ware and decorative vessel forms using unglazed colored clay, exploring form and surface through color, texture, and pattern.

*Teapots that are sold must remain on display in the gallery as part of the exhibit until the show closes on September 10, 2020.  After the show closes, teapots will be carefully packed and shipped by September 26 or available for pick-up at the gallery.