Sculpture
Artist’s Statement
My work explores the functionality of ceramics as a craft. This medium supported human survival and nourishment for millennia. While my work acknowledges its support of our physical needs, I also explore the deep psychological and spiritual role ceramic objects played in the history of our species. I have found that the function of craft is also to invoke or engage the psychic. In my work, I express images from dreams, fantasy, fairy-tale, and other collective contents. The symbols manifested in the ceramic material hold resonance in myself on a personal level, and seek to relate to the same part of the user, viewer, or audience. With this work, the functionality of the object is as important as the symbolic form. The functional nature of the pieces allows the audience member to participate directly in ritual engagement with the archetypal content in the work. These functional and sculptural works—like a bowl that is also a mask, a monster-infused water cup or a horned mask—carry with them the realities of our collective: physical, spiritual, and psychological.
Michael Headrick is a ceramics artist, psychology researcher, and designer. He recently graduated from Teachers College, Columbia University, with a masters in clinical psychology, focusing on the ways that art-making in clay allows for expression and engagement with unconscious contents. Michael previously earned a B.A. in architectural studies at The University of Hong Kong after which he spent ten years living in Asia-Pacific. Michael also serves on the board of directors for CO-RESIDENCY, an artist-led organization that seeks to support artists who create amid crisis.