Wikipedia: "The appeal and expressiveness of pique assiette lies in the ideas of lateral thinking, humor, recycling, and the significance of the found objects."
I am inspired by the potential beauty in the discarded ceramics that I reassemble to create my mosaic art. I am guided by whimsy (an idea that has no immediately obvious reason to exist), honesty and complexity. I prefer 3 dimensional forms and when possible, I try to 'break the plane' even further by extending objects beyond the edges of the piece.
My background in quilting often influences my choices and I am always conscious of the color and texture of my materials: I love the patterns and tactile qualities of pique assiette. I exclusively use broken or used items - nothing 'new' - even the substrates - and I limit myself to patronizing charitable non-profit thrift shops knowing my support goes for worthy causes.
The final test for any project is whether or not the piece can stand alone as interesting, unique or beautiful. It isn't important to me that I create things that are utilitarian, but I do enjoy seeing them used and, as is true for people, recognized as having infinite possibilities.
annshelbyvalentine[at]gmail.com
707-942-1409
