Kathleen Klein-Wakefield

Lives and works in Los Angeles, CA, USA

Artist statement

I make sculptures with ceramic clay. I like clay as it enables me to draw in the 3rd dimension, I consider my sculptures to be 3-D Drawings. Most of the objects I like to sculpt are rich with history and details that I can manipulate and have fun with. I like to combine details to where they become absurd or nonsensical and able to be interacted with the viewer. It amuses me to incorporate drawers that open; phone receivers that can be picked up and hung up; rotary dials that can spin. I use different building techniques and surface treatments such as incised marks in the clay, surface textures, and glazing to make the sculptures identifiable. With these, I can suggest wood, metal and fabric. Occasionally I add actual wood, metal and fabric in small amounts. This being said, the sculptures are primarily made out of clay. Subjects that interest and inspire me are often early examples of technologies that have drastically changed over time, such as telephones and cameras. Many of these sculptures obliquely comment on the digital times we live in. Many of these objects such as telephones, cash registers and clocks are changing or disappearing completely, or their definitions and roles have changed significantly. I find this a relatable quality. For example, clocks had a significance beyond being instruments created to measure and display time. In homes they were once seen as a sign of status and were masterful works made by skilled technicians, craftsmen and artists. You...

Artwork