Bio:
John Brooks has worked collaboratively and individually on a variety of art projects. Large-scale interactive environments reveal suggested mythologies between our surroundings and us - analyzing the hidden dialogues.
After graduating from Northwest with an AFA in Ceramics, Brooks went to study with Michael Hill at the University of South Dakota. Under Hill’s guidance, they developed a rigorous work ethic that enhanced their craft of pottery - learning how to construct and fire several kinds of kilns (electric, gas, wood, salt/soda), and in depth clay and glaze chemistry.
They now reside in the Pacific Northwest where they are living their best artist life. Currently they are running their ceramics practice, Floating Feet Studios, managing the ceramics program at the Olympia Center for Parks, Arts, and Recreation, the full-time art technician for SPSCC, and manager of operations at Monarch Sculpture Park.
Artist Statement:
Led by the form/function of the vessel, I animate the static impressions by distorting the texture through the plastic qualities of the clay. Clay slip is then added to further enrich both visual and tactile contrast. What appears to be mere decoration at first look becomes a layered history of information upon further exploration of the vessel. Life is bits and pieces put together, a harmony of ceremonial occasions and ordinary daily moments. Applying literal bits and pieces from our lives in a celebratory manner allows for contemplation and reconsideration for what can often be overlooked.
Typically, my process flows with form followed by function. However, for this sculptural body of work, I was reflecting a lot on what defines the notion of a home. Developed over the first part of the pandemic, I began collecting these abandoned bird nests and thinking of how to incorporate them into my making process, and how our idea of home tied into the cycle of life and death, creation, and destruction.