My influences for my hand-built vessels and sculpture range from Art Nouveau illustrations of flowers to paisley patterns as well as details of natural elements from birds and animals. Such diversity combined with my own personality culminates by infusing each design with levity, humor and character.

I enjoy the freedom of firing my pieces sometimes 3 or 4 times to get the right color or detail. I use glazes that are layered and each pigment interacts with the other, giving depth to lively colors that are robust as well as elegant. I challenge myself to develop unorthodox practices such as incorporating found collectible items like antique toys, parts from musical instruments, etc., into the sculptured piece as if they were always meant to be one. As with working with clay, the details or form may change along the way, and the results of each piece are truly one-of-a-kind.

You can follow Shannon’s work on Instagram: shannonross88