| It is my aspiration as an artist to create objects with a strong visual identity that reflects functionality, but are more than just a vessel. Through use of color, texture and movement, my work shows an evolution, which I hope, results in a straightforward and graceful statement. I enjoy many aspects of my art that is rooted in function, but I feel the important part is the play of form and texture. My use of texture is the most evident characteristic of my work. There is a term "horror vacui" which refers to a fear of empty spaces and has been used by historians to describe Islamic Pottery. Like these potters, I also find my greatest satisfaction comes from thoroughly filling surfaces with color and finely detailed decoration. My recent work involves references to traditional forms such as jars, or objects with an implied function. Applying non-traditional materials, I am attempting to redefine these functional or traditional objects. By using paper fibers mixed with the wet clay, I have been exploring very thin, highly textures surfaces. This technique of paper clay, which to my knowledge has rarely been done allows for many unique visual opportunities. The challenge that has taken thirty years of my life is to make modern objects that reflect this contrasting view of traditional forms with a unique material.. It is always difficult to explain my art in that it is very personal and based on a process of discovery. I am reminded of the artist Peter Milton, when asked to write a statement defining his art replied, “I would be a sad father indeed if these children weren’t able to speak for themselves”. Jerry Bennett is currently a Resident Artist at the Clay Studio in Philadelphia and can be reached at jerry@jerrybennett.net
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