| The creation of Rick’s vessels is an evolutionary process. For many years he has been fascinated with closed hollow forms – spheres, bubbles, domes – and the architectural engineering of their self-supporting nature. There is something about going one step beyond and closing off form, which Rick refers to as “completing the third dimension”, that satisfies an intangible unspoken need within his spirit. Each vessel begins its life as a closed and hollow form created on the potter’s wheel, and is later cut apart to form a separate base and lid. The delicately carved “feet” on the pears and gourds, is influenced by the cabriole leg found in furniture design, are carved to duplicate the original line of the vessel. Currently, experimentations with raku, using non-traditional glazing techniques, have proven to be exciting and successful. Rick see a certain magical quality to the process of cutting the vessel open: He can hear the air escape in an audible “exhale” as the vessel becomes open, vulnerable, and supported by him. Equally important in the process of creation is spending time with each vessel and assessing its aesthetic direction. I have been known to spend an hour staring at one piece, examining the “line” for hard edges and looking for ways to improve the flow of the vessel. Rick finds a deep therapeutic value in being able to focus and channel the obsessive part of his personality through this process. |
The Works of Rick Greiner
| 617 Massachusetts Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46204 317-822-8455 |
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