Janet
Holson-Mazzer

Biography

For as long as I can remember I have loved clay. I am both captivated and enraptured by it. It leaves me feeling in awe of life. I have always felt connected to this wondrous soft and sensuous material and it inspires me to acknowledge the depth of the human spirit and soul. When I made the decision to enter into this field, there was an instant acknowledgement within that this was what I had longed for my whole life through.

My primary focus revolves around functional forms, pieces that are lovely to look at, to hold, and to use. I believe that through handling and using pottery, that its true beauty is revealed; it’s amazing how a piece of mother earth can be transformed into something that has a spiritual connection, a functional purpose, and an everlasting impression. Hence, the pieces I specifically design for people are always created with their daily rituals in mind.

I am interested in pottery that is joyous; beautiful objects with meaning that weave into our daily lives through use. Pottery decorates our living spaces with character. A pitcher adorns the mantel when not in use or a mug with slight texture inside the handle allows our fingers to discover uniqueness. Pottery is a reflection and celebration of ourselves.

I always wonder, how am I nourished by where I live? I find utilitarian pottery the best method to express my ideas. Handmade pottery is naturally rich in ideas and metaphor; pottery seeps into our houses, our kitchens, and enriches our lives. Pottery weaves into our daily lives through use and decorates our living spaces with character and elegance; pottery is joyous. Pottery is a reflection of our reality, our fantasy and ourselves.

I make pottery out of mostly porcelain clay. It is extremely sensitive and responsive to the human touch when it’s soft; when fired it becomes dense and strong. It is this responsive nature of clay that continues to interest me. It responds to your touch, then you respond to it. The same happens in the firing process with glaze materials and the atmosphere of the kiln. Clay is a supportive and demanding medium for the creative journey of making.

I am insistent about making things with my hands. The need for beautiful domestic objects and the instinctual drive to create things are tremendous dance partners for idea and desire. Utilitarian pottery supports and represents our intimate rituals of nourishment and celebration.