Luminous

Author

Antra Sinha, Utah State UniversityFollow

Date of Award

5-2018

Degree Type

Creative Project

Degree Name

Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

Department

Art and Design

Committee Chair(s)

John Neely

Committee

John Neely

Committee

Dan Murphy

Committee

Jackson Graham

Abstract

As an observer, I have enjoyed the momentary happenings of the world. In India, I have watched shimmering waves from the shores of the Bay of Bengal. In Utah, I have admired gleaming sunlight on freshly fallen snow on the mountains. Peering into the kiln at peak temperature I have been in awe of the bright white light. Close to my heart I hold the significant memory of my dog’s passing, who laid in my lap as the ball of light escaped her. I gather these fleeting moments, and carry them into my studio. I relive these happenings in my mind. It leads me to investigate the basic and fundamental forms found in nature. The idea that all of earth’s creatures have common patterns of geometry and structure captivates me. Are there forms that can successfully convey these attributes?

As a maker, I choose to use clay as my medium. As I sculpt and model clay, in turn, it shapes and molds me. I am drawn to vitreous porcelain because of the way in which it both absorbs and reflects light. I use many methods of construction, and embrace both traditional techniques and new technologies. On the one hand, I use my hands to build forms from coils of clay. On the other, I use a CNC machine to create models and molds for slip casting. Both these processes are repetitive in nature, commanding my attention in ways that are both meditative and contemplative. Each presents challenges; each demands improvisation.

As I have been shaped by my experiences and surroundings. I have evolved. This journey has revealed much. I have learned much by making. I have had opportunities to both gather and to share information. The world is, of course, transient, but this exhibition expresses my understanding of the world at this moment in time. In a word, I find it – LUMINOUS.

Comments

Would like to mention names of two committee members,

Todd Hayes and Dennise Gackstetter who were as instrumental in guiding me to this stage of work, along with the three advisors mentioned earlier.

Recommended Citation

Sinha, Antra, "Luminous" (2018). All Graduate Plan B and other Reports, Spring 1920 to Spring 2023. 1223.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/gradreports/1223