INTERPRETING FOSSILS: RISING TO THE CHALLENGE
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Hood College Arts and Humanities
Program
Ceramic Arts MFA
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Abstract
Fossils have intrigued and mystified humankind for as long as humans have
known they existed. For more than 160 years scientists have studied fossils found in
Fossil Basin, Wyoming, producing volumes of information about species that lived some
fifty two million years ago. Utilizing these Fossil Basin studies, the artist constructed
three-dimensional ceramic sculptures based on the fossils found in Wyoming. These
sculptures offer a very different perspective for understanding natural, compressed three-dimensional
specimens.
As each fossil, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, is uncovered and
studied, our understanding of ancient life changes. Similarly, as people interact,
glimpses of their personal lives are revealed, changing how we understand and relate to
one another. To enjoy more meaningful relationships, mankind must look beneath the
surface to understand the experiences and challenges that shape individuals. These
challenges can be found in the form of a gift, a disability or both.