Welcome   Stevens Strauss   These sculptural pieces would never have existed but for my exposure to crosscurrents of cultural aesthetics - both Western and Asian. Through the study of the arts of Japanese floral arranging and tea ceremony, I developed a deep appreciation of the use of space as a critical design element. The principles that govern the spirit of ikebana and tea appear in my work. Both disciplines depend as much on what is absent as what is present. This concept aligns with my own disposition toward clean lines, terse expression, and an organic approach to the clay. Raku provides the perfect medium to express my artistic ideas. Surrendering to this firing technique's unpredictability is an essential part of the creative process. Using this method ensures the least amount of conscious interference in its emergence. I use found objects to impress textures and slab-build to create organic effects. Other pieces are fired with oxides and subtle, muted glazes.   My work is meant to be an expressed appreciation of emptiness.   'The function of objects is to restore silence' - Samuel Beckett Home Exhibitions Background   The artist first received formal studio training as an undergraduate with Abstract Expressionist Vera Klement at the University of Chicago. While living in Florida, Raku became a consuming interest. After relocating to Oakland in 2003, sculptural works have been accepted to juried venues across the Bay Area. The artist has studied with Susannah Israel, and has been strongly influenced by Paul Soldner (workshops) and Peter Voulkos. Recent work has utilized iron oxide and Japanese glazes in an expanding repertoire of wall pieces and non-functional forms.   Professional affiliations include: Association of Clay and Glass Artists, Pacific Rim Sculptors Group, and Nordic 5 Arts.     Copyright © 2008, Straku, All rights reserved.  Site design & host: NeuronLinks, Inc.