Cecilia Stanford
m o s a i c a r t i s t
Bio
Much of my work is inspired by my career in theater arts, interest in the decorative arts, and an apprenticeship to James Hubbell, artist and designer of hand built environments in southern California . All of these influences combine in my art to create rich surfaces using a variety of materials, although I primarily use my own ceramics for mosaics.
The handmade ceramic tiles and mosaic that I make are specifically designed for each project in my studio in New Mexico. The clay can be rolled to as little as 1/16th on an inch to retain the detail as I cover smaller or more curved objects. The sub-structures for the sculptures are carved from architectural foam, then covered with mesh and acrylic stucco adhesive. Occasionally, found objects are used as bases.
Making one cohesive object out of many pieces is a principle design concept in my work. It is originates in my compulsion to be inspired by and use what is at hand. After six years in the exquisite southern New Mexico light, I can happily say that color in both its subtleties and exuberance have come to be an important part of my work.
A sense of humor as long been an aspect of my work. Themes for my pieces are generally whimsical, and incorporate a a variety of glaze colors and patterns. The multi-color surfaces are an expression of my interest in the decorative and functional arts, as well as creating a kind of alternate reality, an opportunity to see an object differently. Humor is sometimes the last, and best resort to life.
ARTIST STATEMENT
Many years ago, I invested a dollar in a handwriting analysis, done by computer. Among other things, the analysis gave me the following information:
1. I am inpatient when things do not go according to plan
2. I have a clever and calculating mind
3. I have a tendency to worry needlessly
4, I could succeed as a critic in dramatic fields
It seemed accurate enough at the time, and probably still is. Factually, I studied art at a then conceptual school (University of Oklahoma), but after a seventeen year hiatus, took a degree in theater Arts at San diego State University. I made costumes and worked as a dresser for 18 years. During all of this, I have had the good fortune to take a class with clay guru Phil Cornelius and a tradtitional mosaic apprenticeship with artist and designer James Hubbell.
My work covers a range of imagery. The figurative clay work satisfy the narrative and theatrical part of me, and hopefully reveal an awareness of some of the quirks many of us share. The mosaic is almost always about the beauty of material and surfaces, and the necessity of blending beauty and function, especially in our everyday lives.