Artist’s Statement
I am an explorer of the human experience and seek to weave ideas together across a multitude of disciplines: mathematics, physics, cognitive science, anthropology, architecture, storytelling, and anything else I am drawn to. I am curious about how we make sense of and navigate the world we live in. For me, it starts with the universal language of mathematics best expressed as geometric forms and patterns. They are at once both captivating and timeless; they distill complexity down to the essence. Geometric forms and patterns are prevalent across history and cultures; they are the repositories and conveyors of shared meaning – from inspiring baroque cathedrals to ancient mandalas to magnificently designed cities.
I am captivated by the power of narratives in art and stories. The big questions they seek to answer persist over time and permeate our lives. Humans have been creating ceramics as both utilitarian and as artistic expressions for millennia. When archaeologists excavate an ancient ceramic vessel, they decode its function; what it meant to the culture and time it is from. Some of my work imagines what it would be like to find one of my pieces 1000 years from now and seek to understand what mattered to us and what rituals this found object supported. My most recent work explores imagined spaces that are portals to other worlds and possible futures.
I use a range of making and firing processes to achieve desired forms, surface texture, and color.
Among the many artists and writers who have influenced my work are Sol LeWitt, Robert Smithson, Hans Coper, Richard DeVore, Andrew Goldsworthy, Isamu Niguchi, Brancusi, Annie Dillard, Mary Oliver, Joseph Campbell, and James Turrell.
Bio
Eric is a Tampa, Florida-based ceramic artist who began studying ceramics in 1974 and has a BA in Ceramics and Mathematics from Antioch College and a Masters in Learning and Organizational Change from Northwestern University. He has been a professional artist since 1983 and has exhibited in galleries, craft shows and through commissions and wholesale venues. He has also had careers as a pension actuary, learning and organizational development leader, teacher, coach and healing center owner.