

Michael Barnes:
The sculptures by Michael Barnes are made of either porcelain or stoneware constructed through the manipulation of slabs, wheel thrown forms and solid masses of clay. Once the creative stage is complete the sculpture is then dried and subjected to a preliminary firing which makes the piece ready for glaze. This method of firing, termed “hi-fired,” is historically related to those used in ancient China resulting in pieces that are highly vitrified, stable, and exhibit subtlety of texture and color.
“The heads, faces, and figures I create,” Michael Barnes says, “are imaginary beings that are suggestive and hopefully inspiring images that are neither race nor culture specific. They are more like composites of real, fictional, and dreamed people pushed, shaped, and fired for life in a vitrified world. The works are a response, both conscious and other, to the inputs I have received from life. Inevitably, I hope my work reflects the viewer’s inner self and progresses beyond my personal scope.” Michael Barnes acquired both an Art and Geology degree from Southern Illinois University in 1979 and has worked as an Exploration Geophysicist, Construction Engineer and Professional Ceramic Sculptor in the years since.
Cody
Nicely:
Cody
started being passionate about glass blowing when he visited Venice, Italy.
During his first year in Wittenberg University, he discovered a glass blowing
program at the Spring Museum of Art. By the graduation he has 12 glass
sculptures, consisting of 25 pieces. Cody received the Presidential Award for
the most outstanding senior art exhibit. His glass sculptures are featured
in eight galleries nationwide and he also participates in shows such as the
American Craft Council Show, The Buyers Market of American Craft, High Point
Market and Americasmart. He mainly concentrates on a sea world
thematic. His different glass fishes and octopuses are surprises with beautiful
composition.
www.codynicely.com





