The piece is stoneware fired with various slips and stains. I love the versatility of clay. The duality between the strength and plasticity of clay while building and the fragility and elegance of a finished and fired piece is kind of beautiful. I think that is what I wanted the artwork to capture when it was completed.
When I first viewed the painting Guernica, by Pablo Picasso, I found myself interested in exploring the unseen. The composition is filled with powerful imagery and complex shapes. But, step into the painting and shape gives way to form. It was my goal to simply present, what I feel, are the views Beyond Guernica.
I would like to finish re-creating the rest of the painting. Teaching and having three little ones at home (Amelia, 8, Roman, 5, Elijah, 2) have slowed me down a little, but it was always my plan to view the entire painting and its subjects from every angle.
Artistic license showcases artwork by students and educators, in partnership with the National Art Education Association
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Benji Florian
BENJI FLORIAN is an arts teacher at McCutcheon High School, Lafayette, IN.
