Featured Artist Daniel Bassett

Artist Daniel Bassett creates stoneware busts, vessels and planters that capture the eye and the imagination. See more of his delightful work by visiting his website.

 

 

Most of my work is about catching a moment. Whether it is a portrait, a character jar or a planter, my goal is to make pieces that have impact.

 

 

Some of my work is meant to be uncomfortable and those pieces represent images of common human suffering. Some others attempt humor and my hope is that they provide a moment of good cheer. Sometimes I try to include both humor and horror so the piece conveys its unpleasant idea while also taking the edge off.

 

 

Regardless of which human string I’m trying to pull, my hope is that the piece finds the viewer who just “gets it.”

 

 

I have always loved using the human form in my art. While I have made many portrait style busts, my most recent work has largely been planters and character jars. I explore different ways to portray a human being while also creating a functional item. I am particularly interested in the incorporation of plants into the piece to help bring it to life.

 

 

Many of my works are inspired by cartoonists. Their ability to summarize an idea or feeling into a single perfect image is something I aspire to achieve in my three dimensional work.

 

 

I use a variety of techniques to build my sculptures. Once I have an idea, I begin to plan my structure and choose the primary building technique. Usually I use coil, slab or draping to make parts that are then joined together.

 

 

Once the pieces are fired, I use stain, glazes or combination of both. In the cases where there are eyes or teeth, I will paint them with acrylic, and then clear coat them with UV resistant marine epoxy. This makes those areas look wet as well as providing a durable finish so they can be safely displayed outdoors if needed.

 

Artist Daniel Bassett invites you to follow him on Facebook.

 

Want to stay current on cutting edge business articles from Artsy Shark, plus artist features, and an invitation to the next Call for Artists? Click below to sign up for our twice-monthly email. You’ll get all this plus opportunities and special offers that you can’t get anywhere else!