Clay sculptures
are often created to show a link between human beings and the earth from which they were created. As a result, clay sculptures can often be displayed both indoors and outdoors and are particularly suited for open areas with plenty of sunlight. Many sculptors are experimenting with abstract pottery as well, which may provide diversity in your collection.
Instructions
1. Collect clay and ceramic sculptures that illustrate the link between human beings and the earth. Many ceramic sculptors choose subjects such as human figures, animals, fruits and vegetables to show how all life comes from the ground. Some artists may even choose to leave the clay medium unpainted and natural to underline this aesthetic relationship.
2. Place clay sculptures in outdoor spaces, such as gardens and patios, or near large windows where plenty of sunlight is available. The sun tends to bring out the natural textures and colors of the clay, even when it has been fired in a kiln and painted.
3. Create your own clay or ceramic sculpture by placing various types of pottery in patterns that you find aesthetically pleasing. Experiment with both vertical or horizontal placements, using steps or a shelf to show off patterns and relationships. Change these arrangements periodically just to keep your guests involved with the process.
4. Include pieces of abstract pottery when you collect clay sculptures. Abstract pottery involves pieces that are more aesthetically pleasing than functional, with various types of pots, planters and bowls providing an unusual and striking contrast to their more ordinary counterparts.
5. Commission a sculptor to create a clay sculpture specifically for your home or office. Invite the artist to your home so that she can see the lighting requirements and space consideration for an appropriate sculpture. If cost is an issue, send her photographs of the space, using several angles.
6. Use online resources to collect clay sculptures from specific artists, such as the website for Patrick Shepard (see Resources below). You can view other works by particular sculptors by visiting their sites, browsing through their online galleries and obtaining their contact information for further discussion.
