Louise Enevoldsen

February 2020

Artist Spotlight: Louise Enevoldsen

Ceramic Art

For me, Louise’s pieces bring to mind something powerful, something earthy and primal, while at the same time possessing incredible detail and depth. The fascinating and varied textures of these pieces only enhance that effect. This beautiful collection will continue to inspire and spark endless conversation by anyone fortunate enough to experience it.

-Mark

Artist Statement: I fell in love with clay during my very first class at the Columbus Cultural Arts Center over 20 years ago. Hand-building a piece fulfils a part of my soul and has given me such joy in my life. Clay is full of motion; over the years I have learned to not only allow it to flow but also to feel inspired by the form clay takes. It brings a sense of completeness and value to my inner being.

Currently, I am working with porcelain which can sometimes be incredibly temperamental but I am truly enjoying the process of trying to tame this beast! It is an amazing clay and can be quite beautiful once it comes out of the kiln. Previously, I have used stoneware which is more of a forgiving clay. I enjoyed the way my pieces came to completion but porcelain brings more refinement and sophistication to the material.

All of my work is sculptural and usually associated with nature in some way. I enjoy the variances of nature and all of her complexity, especially textural or oceanic forms. I usually start with an initial form or base and then allow the vessel to come into its own through the process of working with the clay. It is such a visceral experience since I am using my feelings and not my intellect.

Texturing is the process I use to finish my pieces. Originally, I used texture to cover the flaws on the vessel but now it has become such an integral part of the process my work would look unfinished without it. I love the way the texture enhances and enlivens my work, while sometimes bringing emotional or conceptual meaning to the piece.

I would like to thank Eric Rausch, he is a wonderful clay artist! He has been instrumental in helping me develop into the artist I am today. His clarity and vision have pushed me into taking chances that I would not have on my own. He has also helped me have more patience with the whole process. I truly appreciate his intelligence and kindness.

Hand-building with clay is such an elemental part of my life. I love how my perception changes as I build each piece, it gives me a very real sense of satisfaction and fulfilment. I hope this brings you to consider where you are right now.

-Louise Enevoldsen