You must be the change you wish to see in the world  
                                                                    – Gandhi

The themes I am exploring in my current work relate to my interest and concern about humanity’s impact on nature through industry, science, technology and consumption – how each individual places their own ecological footprint on the environment in which they live. 

What I find to be the most intriguing aspect of ceramics as a medium of expression is the ability of clay to become a permanent record of an idea, concept or feeling through its transformation and fusing in the kiln. 

No Title No. 2
 

|  Tara's Gallery  |

Each piece is a unique, composition of ceramic elements representing what can be found in nature and that which is man-made – leaves, flowers and buds alongside impressions from everyday cast-away items, in particular what we consider as garbage such as cans and take-out coffee cup lids. I also incorporate reclaimed metal, paper and other found materials into many of the pieces. Glaze is used as the vehicle to fuse the individual elements together in the kiln allowing for spontaneity, improvisation, risk, and some uncertainty as the pieces evolve throughout the process of making. Like the bricoleur, or junk man, I collect things that are reminiscent of the present time and catalogue, reorder and arrange them into three-dimensional objects that invite the viewer to reflect upon the relationship between themselves and their environments and the personal history they will leave behind.

Tara Lynne Franco has been working in clay for almost ten years, recently graduating from Sheridan College’s Crafts and Design Program with a Diploma in Ceramics. She also holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Studies, Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Waterloo. Tara previously worked as a professional planner and policy advisor in the public sector where she was deeply involved in environmental sustainable development issues.