ARTIST STATEMENTThe foundation of my work is the presence of the hand. When I coil and pinch the clay I leave marks as I build the forms, which act as a record of intention. Working in this way makes the process slow and allows me to spend time considering how the anatomy of the vessel comes to life through line, form, and surface. With every piece I strive for subtle, soft, surfaces and the deliberate execution of shapes that move between discreet profiles and dramatic contours. While making, I am more interested in an improvised conversation with these components, rather than a pre-conceived formula. The content of these vessels is embedded in this decision as well as the delicate interplay of formal elements and external influences. In each piece, there are echoes of historical pottery and yet they exist as contemporary vessels. I find inspiration where the art of indigenous cultures intersect with agriculture and architecture and in the history that permeates ceramic art and its endless possibilities for self-expression. The work I make is my soliloquy of simpler times. I turn the soil.I plant the seeds.I grow the wheat.I harvest the grain.I grind the flour.I trade for the salt.I collect the water.I knead the dough.I coax the fire.I bake the bread.Nourishment comes in many forms-labor, vulnerability, connectedness, and desire. The vessels of clay I make are for sustenance. They are documentation of my intent and signifier of my connection to this life, both past and present. Having the hand present in my work is critical. It is through the element of touch I am able to honor honesty, vibrancy, energy, and humility. BIOGRAPHYCandice Methe is an Artist and Educator living in Morrill, ME. She received her BFA in Ceramics and Art History from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, AZ and her MFA from the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis. She has had several Artist-in-Residence opportunities such as The Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramics Arts, Red Lodge Clay Center, Santa Fe Clay, RAIR (Roswell Artist in Residence Foundation) and SWOPA (Sirigu Women's Organization for Pottery and Art) in Ghana. She has exhibited and taught nationally as well as internationally. She is a lover of Ancient Pottery, nature, dogs and gardening. When not in her studio you can find her hiking, knitting or in the kitchen baking!