The creation of work that references and responds to my surroundings is a constant in my clay practice. Whether being entranced with landscape when I lived in Saskatoon, to developing the exhibition Politics on My Plate during my time in Ottawa to now, living in the conflicted tourist town of Canmore. 

My ceramic work is a response to the diverse natural and human landscape of the Bow Valley. There are many stories to explore, from the passing of geological time, to the origins of curious place names (names such as Arethusa, Marvel, Shark, Og and Magog come to mind), the fragility of certain wildlife species and the tenacity of others, and the ongoing human interaction. All of this takes place within the ever present and glorious mountains and valleys. My hand built, story based pieces begin as drawings which are developed into patterns for sculptures, wall pieces and vessels. I use lino carvings, molds, drawing, stencils, text, and different glaze and non glaze combinations to realize these Bow Valley stories. 

For this years “Off the Wall” Show I am exhibiting 6 Pine Dwelling Pixies. Across from Elevation Place is a cell phone tower that has been disguised to fit the Canmore sensibility; it has been made over to look like a pine tree. The greenery sprouting from this tree blows off on occasion. I gathered some up and repurposed the branches, with the thought, "What would live in this tree? 

I use clay mined in Alberta from Plainsman Clays in Medicine Hat, Alberta. 

Contact: Puckjanes@gmail.com