Karen Moorhead
Iowa City, IA
ARTIST'S STATEMENT
I live in Iowa City and work on pottery at my home. I have been working with clay for 15 years. I throw vessels on a potter’s wheel, but also enjoy hand building items. In many cases I will combine these techniques to create interesting pieces.
My work is high fired porcelain or a white clay called Bmix. The pieces are functional and can be used in the microwave and are dishwasher safe. Each piece is one of a kind and hand made by me. There will be variations in color and design. Some of these variations are intentional. Others are created during the firing process
I am not a production potter. Each piece is hand made. Variations will occur, even if the pieces are similar. This is the beauty of handmade items.
I am inspired by the beauty of nature. I often use leaves from my garden to impress in my work. Hosta leaves, Dusty Miller, rhubarb leaves and Astilbe leaves are some of my favorites. It is always a pleasure to find the perfect leaf for a piece. I also enjoy experimenting with new ideas and techniques. There is always something new and exciting to try with clay.
I like to put a small drawing on the bottom of my work. Most often this is a bird on a tree branch, but this varies. It is a surprise for the customer. Along with a drawing, you will notice a symbol. This is a backward K and an M, my initials. Porcelain pieces will have a small star impressed next to the initials. A Bmix item will have a small dot next to the initials. This allows me to compare glazes on different clay bodies.
I hope you enjoy your new piece of pottery!