JEFF
DOWNING
Artist
Statement
The
originality of my art stems from an improvisational approach to the clay. Armed
with a basic concept, I permit the clay to guide my hand toward the spontaneous
realization of the enhanced version of the original idea. This process is
similar to that of musical improvisation, with the melody guiding the free
formation of music.
My
current body of work portrays dogs in states of emotion, which relate to
personal experiences as well as with dogs in general. My affinity for dogs stems
from their many gestures of devotion and unconditional love, which have been
paramount in the development of my own personality.
Dogs
are a close link between humans and nature. They have adapted an intuitive
communication between the two disparate worlds. Of all animals, I find dogs to
be the most expressive of the corollary emotions and needs of animals and
humans.
My
sculptures are expressive of my inner perspective and dog imagery is the best
way for me to convey my current impressions and experiences because dogs are the
animals to which I feel most akin.
In
my own relations with dogs, I have found them to be easily spurred into a state
of fun and games. It is this same passion for life that inspires me to create.