Northern Star

Description

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“Northern Star Coral” is inspired by a coral species found off the coast of Rhode Island, where my initial connection to the ocean was began. Noted for its ecological flexibility, the species thrives in environments ranging from New England’s cold waters to the warmer Caribbean and the western coast of Africa, typically growing in a mound-like form that supports its resilience in temperate regions. The sculpture’s bulbous branches reference Paragorgia arborea (bubblegum coral), also found in deep-sea canyons off Rhode Island. Sand collected from Narragansett Beach was incorporated into the clay body in place of manufactured grog, strengthening the personal and conceptual ties to place. Using hand made texture tools, the surface was manipulated to mimic the coral’s rough, cratered texture, which was further emphasized with a crater glaze and layered light and dark pink spray paint applied after the cone 6 glaze firing. The sculpture is paired with Bubblegum Coral to contrast texture and color while reflecting their geographic proximity.