Patricia Keller graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from California State University Channel Islands in 2019. She focused on ceramics, sculpture, and screen printing. Upon graduation, she was awarded an internship at the Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts.
The purpose of the internship was for Keller to develop a body of work inspired by working in Wood’s studio space and her vast library of arts and culture books. Lost City is the result.
Keller combined imagery in the spirit of cultural artifacts and the Ojai Valley landscape using traditional ceramic construction with experimental decorative and sculptural techniques. Each piece is meant to evoke and honor human creativity.
Known for her exploration of materiality and process of clay, Keller experiments with decorative and sculptural elements on formal pottery forms with the intent to discover the metaphorical potential of the medium.
"The research and concept for Lost City began to develop a narrative and cohesion through the experimental process of using new clay bodies, firing schedules, and decorative materials readily available in Beato’s Studio. The clay bodies used are either cone 5 stoneware or cone 06 earthenware, both fired in electric kilns in oxidation. Of the decorative materials, Mason Stains were used to either stain bisque, or were incorporated into a glaze or a clay body. Underglazes were used to create image transfers of my own design or applied directly. I also used slip, engobe, or common surface clay to create texture, contrast, and/or intrigue. Lastly, I combined conventional and unconventional methods of application to create specific effects.
I believe that the role of an artist is to be a steward of culture, but through experimentation, I have developed a confidence in storytelling."
- Patricia Keller
