natchez project

january 2011



location: conner burns studio

what is this?

the natchez project is an experiment in gathering four clay artists together in one studio in an effort to provide an environment where artists can both be free to experiment with what they desire as well as learn from each other during this time.


why?

to provide time and space for clay artists to get together and make good artwork, learn from each other and enjoy each other during the process.


format?

the natchez project artists will work together in the studio of conner burns daily. each artist will work on projects determined by the individual artist - collaboration is purely optional.


who are the artists that received fellowships to participate in the natchez project 2011?



mike jabbur

mike has made both functional and sculptural vessels. his current focus is on functional forms with expressive form and surface.

conner met mike through red star studios where both served (at different times) as the artist-in-residence.

mike describes his own work with these words - "Fundamental to my production of utilitarian pottery is the forging of connections that simultaneously enrich lives and celebrate the positive aspects of humanity. My pottery is about these very entities: material, form, utility, interaction and experience; through the exploration of these entities, it is my intention to re-engage the user with the vessel. "

for additional information about mike and his artwork, please visit his website at: www.mikejabburceramics.com




cynthia lee

cynthia works in a maner which incorporates a variety of techniques combined to create a rich and varied surface and story.

conner met cynthia at the alabama clay conference a number of years ago when cynthia was the director of the odyssey center for ceramic arts.

in her own words - "My curiosity in clay is coupled with the endless beauty of this world and the strength of the human spirit. A plants ability to burst forth from a slab of concrete, continually changing to adapt and survive the harsh atmosphere of earth gives hope of endurance. This love of nature, the cycle of growth, and the strength of all living things finds its way into each piece ..."

want more? visit: www.cynthialeeceramics.com






cory mcrory

cory makes both functional and sculptural work. both are whimsical and playful. imaginative thought and attention to detail make this work amazing.

conner met cory at clay sandwich 2009 in sandwich illinios.

there are many words that might be used to describe cory's work, but they do not include the words - boring, static, dull, drab or serious. her thought process is creative and expressive - more could be said, but the only way to truly understand is to see her work and meet her in person.

for additional images and information about cory and her artwork, please visit her website at: http://home.comcast.net/~potteryhead/site/?/home/




how were the artists selected?

conner travels across north america teaching workshops and exhibiting his artwork, during this time he has had the opportunity to meet a large number of exceptional artists. the artists in the natchez project are chosen based on the artwork they make, and how that process and that artist fits with the group of a certain year. there is no application process for this event, artists are invited to participate in the natchez project.


what about the exhibition and artist reception?

there will be a exhibition of the artwork of the artists in the gallery of conner burns. this is a one-day exhibition held on saturday, january 29th from 5-8pm. the artists will be present to discuss the artwork. artwork made during the week will also be on display in the studio (at the same location). the exhibition will be at the gallery of conner burns at 209 franklin street.


additional information on the natchez project from the past