Justin Vowell

Vessels for Stories

The potter’s wheel has aided humankind in efficiently creating utilitarian vessels for

thousands of years. For civilization to thrive, these vessels contained esscentials such as grain, water and oil. As an artist, I seek to use this tool to create vessels that will carry another one of civilization’s essential elements: stories.

With my art, I begin by first throwing individual vessels on the wheel. Then, I combine the individual pieces, building new creations. A cup and small vases assemble to form the hand of a sasquatch. A scalloped flower pot becomes the crown for a king. Utilizing my background as a painter, I decorate these creations with acrylic paint; oftentimes adding illustrated elements to the three dimensional forms. As these figures take shape, life is breathed into them, and they begin to speak for me. My work often explores the wonderment of childhood and the possibility of adventure. Influenced by satirical comics such as Mad Magazine and The Far Side, humor often flavors my narrative.

Signature of Justin Vowell Thesis Committee Members:

Professor Robert Long, Chair

Professor Rowan Haug

Professor Caroline Hatfield