Ceramic bowls by Aleta Chandler
St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Gallery announces the work of Aleta Chander, Aug. 19-Sept. 27.
Community members will have the opportunity to meet and talk with the artist on Thursday, Sept. 19 during a gallery reception from 4:30-6 p.m. in the St. Andrew’s-Sewanee Gallery. All are invited to attend.
"Artist Aleta Chandler produces remarkable ceramic pieces that display an intentional connection between nature and design," officials said.
According to Ms. Chandler, she fell in love with clay while watching a pottery demonstration at Dollywood as a teenager.
“I didn’t know it would be my calling, but I knew it would at least be my buddy, and it has been. I’m inspired by Mid-Century modern designs, vernacular architecture, Steampunk culture, beetles and networks of all kinds including technological, biological and social.”
Ms. Chandler said she aims to create functional vessels that are comfortable to hold and evoke feelings and memories related to these inspirations. She enjoys exploring new forms and surface treatments, periodically changing her aesthetic, while paying careful attention to form and craft.
Ms. Chandler lives and works in Johnson City, running an independent art studio, ArtCurious. For the past 15 years, she has taught ceramics to over 200 students each year. In addition to making found object jewelry and functional and non-functional clay objects, she enjoys the fascination and sense of satisfaction that comes from her students having fun with clay.