Katie Reeves
Bio
Katie Reeves is a Queer ceramic artist originally from Albertville, Minnesota. They have degrees in Studio Art: Ceramics and Art Education from the University of Wisconsin-Stout. Since graduation, they have been focused on furthering their artistic career and are now an integral part of both Eagan Art House and Eden Prairie Art Center. Having just completed their first Residency at Northern Clay Center, they are eager to continue making a name for themselves in the art world. At the age of 12, they threw on the wheel for the first time and immediately fell in love with the medium. Over a decade later, ceramics continues to be their passion. Katie makes functional ceramicware that focuses on the themes of sexuality, femininity, intimacy, and classicism. They plan to eventually attend grad school to become a college professor, but for now, they are working on creating a stronger presence in the ceramics world.
Artist Statement
I make functional ceramicware that focuses on the themes of sexuality, femininity, classicality, and intimacy. My experience as a Queer person has a strong influence on my work. I reference the female form in my work with the use of soft and voluptuous curves in my pieces. Using porcelain as a clay body, and the addition of sprigs and slip trailing, I create work that is feminine and delicate, while simultaneously being bold and sassy. My work makes direct references to antiquity, specifically Baroque and Rococo ornamentation. I am drawn to the intricate and extravagant detailing on old metalware, such as that in antique frames, silverware, and furniture. Using slip detailing, I create intricate designs that mimic many of these patterns. I enjoy the combinations of decorative embellishments and use many of these qualities in my functionalware. I focus on making work that is comfortable in the hand, and on the mouth. My work emphasizes the moments of contact between the user and the object. The suppleness of the curves and the textures of the slip trailing are meant to invite the viewer to run their fingers along each moment. I enjoy watching the user interact with the piece as they discover every texture.