SCOTT JONES

BIOGRAPHY

Scott Jones grew up in rural Northwest Ohio, where he discovered his passion for clay at a young age. An artist and potter, Jones has exhibited work in reputable exhibitions, including the Wichita Ceramics National Exhibition, Utah State University’s Paper and Clay, and the University of Montana’s MFA Online Exhibition. He received his BFA from Bowling Green State University in 2019, then relocated to North Carolina, where he was an artist-in-residence at STARworks Ceramics and The North Carolina Pottery Center. Having recently graduated from Wichita State University’s MFA program, Jones is enthusiastic about expanding on his concept of emotional intelligence and empathy.

ARTIST STATEMENT

My work focuses on emotional intelligence, highlighting its role in developing genuine human connections, authentic self-expression, and resilience. In an era where technology mediates our interactions and shapes our perceptions of reality, emotional intelligence is pivotal for understanding and responding to others. This, in turn, fosters a more empathetic and compassionate culture. Authentic expression is essential for social connection, personal well-being, and cultural richness, making it a cornerstone of a healthy, vibrant, and progressive society. Additionally, emotional intelligence enables us to navigate life’s challenges, cultivating the inner resilience necessary to overcome adversity.

Clay's plasticity makes it a versatile medium for expression, allowing me to create gestures emphasizing sensitivity and intimacy. Its inherent qualities facilitate expressions of fluidity and gentleness, turning the artistic process into a collaborative effort with the material. My process incorporates hydrographic printing to apply seamless patterns that enhance the physical form, capturing the nuances of pushing, pulling, and stretching. The gestures involved in this decorative process reinforce the connection to emotional intelligence and showcase the balanced dynamic I share with the material.

My work acknowledges and reinterprets the visual language of 20th-century Abstract Expressionism, exploring its potential beyond traditional frameworks. By incorporating an alternative perspective, I aim to create an inclusive and empathetic dialogue.

www.scottjones.art
Instagram: @sj_ceramics