Vidya Vijayasekharan

Artist Statement

Objects often transcend their functional roots to communicate with us, through observation. I started out making ceramic vessels that transitioned to abstract sculptural forms, both organic and geometric. My work is inspired by my travels through urban cityscapes and geological landforms, which in turn is spurred by my interest in the migration of people and ideas; these ceramics are my response to man-made cultures and the natural environment.

I use a variety of stoneware and each type of clay comes with its unique personality and characteristics that allow me to respond to those properties. My interest in architecture, design and the Asian aesthetic are reflected in these hand-built, slab and coil construction ceramic sculptures that are twice fired at about 2200 degrees F. The textured and patterned surfaces are the result of engraving, stamping, inlay and carving. Some pieces are burnished and gilded, while others have multiple applications of slips, stains and glazes. In my recent work I use mishima inlay, a centuries-old technique popularized in Korea. My hand, as well as the clay and the fire from the kiln mark the form and surface of each piece.

-- Vidya Vijayasekharan

Bio

Vidya Vijayasekharan is an artist, art historian and educator. She started taking ceramic classes as an adult and it is the realization of clay transforming into ceramics that has propelled her interest in the medium. The form and design of Vidya’s ceramics are inspired by Asian techniques and aesthetic, informed by world history and mythology, and they address concepts that are universal.

Vidya lives and works in Maryland, USA and is a spirited advocate for Arts in education.