View From The Pines

Artist: Jenny West

Safe and Protected
9" x 9", 5" x 6.5"
Handbuilt stoneware, wax, acrylic finish, oxidation

"Born and raised in Toronto and coming from generations of artistic women, art and the creative process have always played an important part in my life. I have taken a variety of classes and workshops at the Haliburton Summer School of Art, Pine Tree Potters' Guild, and the Toronto District School Board. My membership in Pine Tree Potters has placed me around other artists who have inspired and taught me.

I have loved working with clay since the first piece was put in my hand 20 years ago. Hand building and sculpting have been the way I have expressed myself with clay. Shapes inspire me, especially form which suggest, rather than details. As I learn, my work is continually changing and evolving.

The title Safe and Sound refer to both the mare and her foal.

I have stood at the fence of a paddock and watched the pride and protectiveness that a mother has displayed for her newborn baby. A pride which says, "Look at her, enjoy, she is beautiful." and a protectiveness that says, "Look, but stay outside the fence, she is mine."

This sculpture is a nod to all the people who have taken an off-track thoroughbred and given it a life of sanctuary or new purpose."