On Breaking: A Dynamic Exploration of Clay and Culture.

The seasonal endeavor of harvesting and processing clay across southern Oregon and beyond has become a ritual. The process involves: 1) Harvesting clay, 2) Blending into a smooth slurry 3) Casting into geometric plaster molds, 4) Firing at varying temperatures to produce warm earth tones, and 5) Installing pieces to tell a visual story through sculpture.

Taking something directly from the land requires us to reflect on the metamorphic changes over millennia that it has taken to produce this clay. Foraging from my surroundings establishes a profound bond; maintaining our cultural heritage while living sustainably requires thoughtfulness and reflection. This exhibition titled ‘On Breaking’ invites us to examine our reciprocal relationship with the Earth and our identity.

The main piece in the exhibit, "Kayumanggi Project," is both a landscape and a portrait. As an immigrant, I strive for connection to new lands while retaining my Filipino identity. This homage to clay, the "earth medium", stands as a testament to collective resilience and the transformative power of the Filipino diaspora around the world. Kayumanggi means brown in my native tongue of Tagalog and I celebrate the diversity and beauty of the color with this piece.

This exhibit is on view at Gambrel Gallery from December 1, 2023, until February 10, 2024.