Combining other materials with porcelain has been a significant aspect of my work for years. Feathers, fiber, fabric, beads, mirrors, metal, fiberglass and rope have all been incorporated with porcelain, my primary medium. The addition of other media is a way to extend the boundaries of porcelain and to transcend its limitations. Working with new ideas has frequently necessitated using another material to complete the concept. For example "rope ladder for times of emergency, now", an anti-war piece, required rope to link the porcelain rungs and to convey a sense of authenticity.

In the last decade, since I've lived along the Rondout Creek and began spending time roaming its banks, another material has become part of my work: riverwood. The infinite variety of shapes and the patinas of the river tumbled surfaces have both fascinated and inspired me. In a sense the river and I have been collaborating. Finding a beautiful piece of wood on a morning walk is the beginning of a process that may take months, even several years, to become a new piece. Often the shape and surface of the wood suggests new forms which need to be created to complement it. The anticipation of a new find has become a deeply imbedded part of my creative cycle.

All Rights Reserved Kaete Brittin Shaw 1999 - 2010.