Beverly Dorland is a ceramic artist currently living in Apex, NC. She hand builds both functional and nonfunctional works, with a predominately natural palette for glaze colors. Several of her current works are inspired by her paternal ancestors of the Upper Mattaponi Indian Tribe in central VA. Dorland may be reached at bdceramicarts@gmail.com to purchase works off her Instagram page @bdceramicarts.
StatementI find the process of working in clay enthralling and mesmerizing. Starting out with basic elemental materials of earth and water, there are an infinite number of possible outcomes. While the final structural requirements and desired aesthetics heavily influence the making of a piece, the making of each piece is unique and a journey unto itself. I find inspiration in familiar predictable forms such as functional pottery, Victorian candy dishes, and garden rocks. But I strive to create pieces that after first glance are not considered standard interpretations. I create a moment in time when the observer can be mesmerized too, whether by the interplay of colors, surface texture, overall shape, or sound. The interiors of my presentation bowls float up to the rims. My serenity rattles are designed to be held and used on a whim. My spirit pieces evoke nature and ancestral memories. While casual observers may quickly regard my works, I hope to reward others who pause to question the making of my pieces and the movement of the glazes.
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