gail j. heilmann
stoneware & porcelain
stoneware & porcelain
Currently, my focus is directly inspired from natural forms. I am able to use my passion for working in clay to
transform actual leaf impressions into functional pieces of art. Using both porcelain and stoneware, I create
botanical forms for both artistic pleasure and functional use. Some pieces are wheel-thrown and altered to
capture the abstract illusion of natural forms in plant and tree life, while others are created using actual
leaves pressed into the clay and individually made into bowls, platters, and dishes. A combination of glazes is
applied to convey an organic impression causing the observer to want touch, hold and use the work. These
organic “Botaniques” stem from the influences of growing up on the arid prairies of Colorado where green
growth in grass and crops was a celebration. Presently living among the tall pines and Black Hills of South
Dakota inspires the expression of annual and evergreen in my artwork. Having honed my techniques at the
Penland School of Crafts and at the Anderson Ranch Art Center, my artwork has evolved into a contemporary
hybrid of the botanic, the conceptual and the sculptural, referred to by many as modern-day fossils.
transform actual leaf impressions into functional pieces of art. Using both porcelain and stoneware, I create
botanical forms for both artistic pleasure and functional use. Some pieces are wheel-thrown and altered to
capture the abstract illusion of natural forms in plant and tree life, while others are created using actual
leaves pressed into the clay and individually made into bowls, platters, and dishes. A combination of glazes is
applied to convey an organic impression causing the observer to want touch, hold and use the work. These
organic “Botaniques” stem from the influences of growing up on the arid prairies of Colorado where green
growth in grass and crops was a celebration. Presently living among the tall pines and Black Hills of South
Dakota inspires the expression of annual and evergreen in my artwork. Having honed my techniques at the
Penland School of Crafts and at the Anderson Ranch Art Center, my artwork has evolved into a contemporary
hybrid of the botanic, the conceptual and the sculptural, referred to by many as modern-day fossils.
email:
5305 Pinedale Heights
address:
phone:
(605) 721-9091
Rapid City, SD 57702