Tammie Rubin

My current body of work delves into my fascination with invented narratives. I create chimerical creatures and hybrids inhabiting mythic worlds. These creatures and their environments are composed of patterns and textures inspired by manufactured objects that are often considered trivial and disposable, but in which I find beauty. I use techniques found in food decoration and incorporate disposable containers, packaging, toy icons, and replicas of nature.

These sculptures are wall mounted, evoking habitat, referencing plaques, tableaus, trophies or relics. The ceramic techniques I employ allow me to explore my interests in the changing historical view of “ornament” and “pattern” in contemporary culture. Through process I try to satisfy my curiosity for sumptuous fluid surfaces, ideas of accumulation and myth. Utilizing the amorphous properties of clay, while exploring its inherent materiality I create fanciful creatures that feel both familiar and alien.