The amazing abundance of symbolic forms and images through time and across the Earth on pottery vessels, female figurines, and other cult objects has persuaded me that these works are much more than simply decorative  geometric motifs.  I'm convinced that they belong to an un-deciphered language of the metaphysical.  Among the lines and shapes on these artifacts are to be found primal insignia of the snake, bird, bison, egg, heart, and womb.  The water-carrier is another familiar image of the goddess and associates her with the waters of life, life-giver, and ultimately, the mysterious source of all life. 

My ceramic sculptures have been inspired by these powerful forms and images.  The shapes seem to have been stretched by their own contents.  The large dimension of the vessels removes them from functional applications.  Such pots have always been essential elements of ancient rituals and sacred ceremonies.  Vessels such as these once received sacrifices and holy waters.  They were created to honor and enchant the perceived energy personified by Mother Nature.

I hope the observer can sense the ages-old nonchalance  I admire so much in the work of these ancient potters: Consummate skill expressed through intimate knowledge of materials.  It is evident that their process was driven by an intuitive sensitivity to form and surface.  Finally, I hope the energy vested in the creation of these vessels finds a resonance in the viewer's imagination.
                                                       
Jaymes F. Dudding