Cheryl Horning

Artist Statement

I am fascinated by identity, where we come from, and who we think we are. I draw inspiration from other people’s stories, contemporary and ancient, real and imaginary to create characters with interior lives of struggle and hope. My figures are often immersed in their physical environment in a visceral way and they often embody a sense of magical realism.

I am passionate about breathing life into a lump of clay. Little by little, as the form takes shape filling up the space in front of me, I am sometimes surprised and delighted by this new being.The figures are built hollow, covered with oxides or stains, fired, and then painted with casein or acrylics washes.

Outward appearance is rich in variation, but look deeply at muscle, skin, and bone which carry the life story of each person. Look into their eyes and I hope a connection of understanding, love, and reverence will be made for each human.