My process revolves around developing form and exploring patterns. My work is wheel-thrown and hand-built with aggregated earthenware and stoneware clays. It is decorated with cut patterns, bright white porcelain slip, and pigmented glaze.

I make human scaled objects that stand as specifically useful and generally metaphorical. I connect to the history of ceramics while also relating to game theory, color theory and formalism. I work to describe a connection between architecture and our haptic experience, with objects becoming interior landmarks to navigate and consider. I am charmed by the anti-monumental, and challenged by the spatial balance between objects, architecture, and the group.


BIO:

Originally from Fargo, ND, Zak Helenske (b. 1985) received a BFA (2004-2009) in Ceramics at North Dakota State University. He received his MFA (2010-2012) in Ceramics and Ceramic Sculpture at Rochester Institute of Technology’s School for American Crafts. His work moves through functional ceramics, sculpture, craft, and design. He now lives and works in Seattle, WA for 7 years maintaining a full-time studio practice with his partner, artist Mya Kerner. Zak Helenske is represented by Vetri Gallery in Seattle, WA, Eutectic Gallery in Portland, Or, Chin Chin Pottery in Tainan City, Taiwan, and Clay AKAR in Iowa City, IA. In 2017 he was named an Emerging Artist by Ceramics Monthly.

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@zakhelenske

zak@zakhelenske.com

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  © Zak Helenske. All Rights Reserved.

 
 

© Zak Helenske. All Rights Reserved.