A playful Watcher with horns sits in a pot. The World of the Watchers is an evolving story-building project that interweaves folklore and myth-building with ceramic sculpture and photography. The project began as a search for a greater sense of play and whimsy, in a practice that felt over-thought and overly serious. It has quickly taken on a life of its own, with the characters and story building upon themselves in unforeseen ways. It is both a response to the ever growing threats of climate change, as well as a call to take seriously the art of play and wonder. This piece is part of Stefanie Smith's Retail Feature display from June 6 to July 12 in the front window of Craft Ontario's Queen Street West location. Works will be shipped after the feature is completed. Please reach out to [email protected] if you require earlier shipping or pick-up. Coloured PorcelainApprox. 6 x 6 x 9 cm Stefanie Smith is a ceramic artist from Canada, with something of a wandering spirit. Originally from Ontario, she has also been based in Newfoundland, Wales, Alberta, and Saskatchewan, and has participated in artist residencies around the world. She was recently a yearlong Artist in Residence at Medalta, Medicine Hat, and now calls Saskatoon home. Stefanie’s work moves and evolves as much as her place of residence does. While her first clay home was with hand-built pottery, she is now setting down roots in the world of sculpture. Presently her focus is on figuration, the power of play and whimsy, and the creation and interpretation of story. Through all of her journeys through form and process, some elements travel with her: a passion for ornament, and a draw towards the natural world. Afterall, no matter how far you travel, you always carry something of the past with you.
