Mugshot Monday with Andy Nasisse

Some may argue that this week's Mugshot is not actually a Mugshot... infact the artist himself calls this piece a Yunomi (a basic Japanese tea cup which is taller than it is wide, with a defined trimmed foot, made for everyday use.  Not to be confused with the chawan which is a tea-bowl intended for use in traditional tea ceremony). But in our opinion the pinched ears on this little guy qualify as handles, thus making this piece a mug!  

The artist is Salt Lake City based potter, Andy Nasisse.  With a unique approach to his craft, Andy Nasisse is drawn to opposites, and surfaces full of tension and energy.  In his artist statement he says, "Over the years I have developed methods of working with clay that are meant to bring out the natural qualities of that material and of the process of drying, shrinking, glazing, melting, and firing. By multiple firing, and layering of slips and glazes, I try to make objects that have stratified active surfaces that snap and crackle with energy."  We think Mr. Nasisse's intentions are eloquently and clearly put in his statement, and obviously illustrated in this simple yunomi full of personality.

For more information about Andy Nasisse's work please visit his website at www.andynasisseart.com