There is a movement in philosophy called deconstructionism. It challenges any idea that there is absolute truth or beauty. It declares that there is no order or purpose for the universe. This leads some artists to become very self centered since it allows them to say, “The only meaning my art has is the meaning I give it.”

I guess I could be described as an anti-deconstructionist since I believe that there is order and purpose in the universe. I live to fulfill my proper place in that order. I want my work to be a reflection of that idea so that it has a constructive effect on the beholder.  I don’t work for myself but for the individual that eventually owns one of my pieces. I want to inspire people through my work even if they are only inspired to say, “This is a very useful object.”

One of the intriguing aspects of working in clay is that the outcome it all depends on the skillful manipulation of what the ancients saw as the four elements; earth, wind, fire, and water.

 I enjoy building and making things and believe that pottery is a great way to satisfy the urge to create.

 Don Bade Jr.