Artist Statement

I am compelled by the indexical nature of clay—its ability to register experience, not unlike a photograph. The word understand, in Old English translates simply as: to stand under, or among; while in Greek: to stand upon or before—both etymologies imply that understanding is experienced through the body. In a world of waning physical contact, I press clay onto the people, places and things around me. I press clay onto my life as a way to be present in it. While my work in clay takes many forms, making useful objects is an integral part of my art practice that allows me to observe my surroundings, process my experiences and work through ideas in a more direct and playful way. Making and using pots is a deeply human endeavor, affording the opportunity for connection to both the current user as well as a long history of ceramic tradition.

Artist Biography

Melodie Reay is an artist and educator based in Los Angeles and Vancouver. Compelled by the indexical nature of clay, her work explores ideas of documentation and preservation in relation to the body. She holds an MFA from Louisiana State University and a BFA from Concordia University in Montreal. Throughout her artistic career she has worked as a university adjunct professor, ceramics technician, instructor for community outreach programs and small business owner. Her work has been exhibited internationally and has been supported by residencies such as AARK in Finland, MAWA in Winnipeg, Vermont Studio Center, Shadbolt Centre for the Arts and Banff Centre for Art and Creativity.