Jacquita BEddo

I am one of those people that love to make things. The child within me seems to still be dying to yell out “Look what I made!” Here is my dirty little secret though: I want people to buy my stuff. My biggest thrill is when someone is willing to hand over their cash to own something I made. It is a validation that is priceless.

I am involved with several different medias, but I love clay. The transformative power of the firing process is the kicker for me. I’m still amazed that the dried mud that went into the kiln comes out the other side as something solid and substantial. Kilns, both old school and new technology, intrigue me. My family likes to tease that I have a kiln habit.

Figurative sculpture makes up the majority of my work, but organic shapes also really appeal to me. Another thing that gets me going is making things that people use, so I also do some functional ware. My hope in that endeavor is to make pieces that will be treasured. I especially like to make square plates, bowls, and platters.

Not long ago I fell in love with saggar firing or fume firing. I’ve been playing with a torso pot that I call female vessels. The shape of course appeals to me but the organic nature of the fume fired surface is very exciting.

I’m also working on some colorful Abiquiu themed tiles. Abiquiu is a special place and everything from the landscapes to the animals that inhabit the area can evoke a sense of magic. These tiles are simply fun and that playful aspect come through in the tiles. Life is truly wonderful and magical here in Abiquiu, New Mexico and it is my hope my work is evidence of that.