As I explored various media options for the show, I decided to work in clay and incorporate sculpture and found objects.  I also knew that the work needed to be meaningful and have purpose for me.  Finally, I wanted most of the pieces to be functional.

With these insights in mind, my thoughts quickly turned to my fascination and love for outdoor spaces, nature, and how I could creatively work to bring the outdoors in.  I began to search for natural objects to press into the wet clay.  I found the shapes of leaves to be not only aesthetically pleasing and interesting, but also that they worked quite well using a wax-resist glaze technique that I decided to utilize.

. . . . I see each piece in this show as a beginning, not an end.  The past several months have been filled with joys, struggles, discoveries, and disappointments.  Although the culmination of this work provides me with some sense of relief and accomplishment, I am looking forward to begin my next project where I will further explore and build on the work I have begun here.    BETSY POLING BRAUN, April, 1999

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