Justice Catron

BIOGRAPHY

Justice Catron graduated in May 2023 with a BFA in Studio Arts focusing in Ceramics. Justice currently works at the Manhattan Arts Center as the Clay Studio Manager. His previous position as an intern at the Anderson Ranch Arts Center came with an exhibition opportunity. He has also exhibited at the Chanute Art Gallery, Salina Arts Center, and The Mark A. Chapman Gallery at Kansas State University. Born in Tahlequah, OK, his ethnic identity as a Cherokee is a paramount influence on his work, which he juxtaposes with his outward racial identity and the struggle inherent in that opposition.

ARTIST STATEMENT

As a Cherokee citizen, and member of the Native American community at large, I feel duty bound to explore a new understand of what “Nativeness” looks and feels like. My work derives from my understanding of biracial and multiethnic perceptions from my experiences through clay. Each work provides a snapshot of myself as I am perceived by others as well as who I feel I am. Often considered inseparable, race and ethnicity play a critical role in my work to depict my experience in which they feel separated. Traditionally defined by skin color and blood quantum, I look to break down those systemic dogmas and begin defining those identities by community participation, common geographies, shared experiences and generational traumas. By using decals and lusters on atmospheric surfaces, all contemporary ceramic techniques, in contrast with traditionally inspired native forms, I interpose myself and the work to create dialogue about cultural identity. My identity being two-fold is represented in the work through the vintage floral and “Indian” images to contradict common stereotypes of these identities.

Instagram: @ceramicsbyjustice