Mari Emori
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Journey of Life
sculpture clay, handbuilt, colored slip, cone 6 reduction

18" x 18" x 3" (wall mounted)
2015

$500

This handbuilt sculpture is intended to be hung on a wall. I was inspired by the labyrinth, "Man in the Maze" motif, found on silverwork, pottery, and handwoven baskets produced by the native people of Arizona, especially the Tohono O’odham and Navajo. I recreated the texture of a handwoven basket on clay by using the sgraffito (scratching the surface) technique. The labyrinth design depicts experiences and choices we make on our journey through life. The single path toward the center represents our journey toward finding deeper meaning in life. The twists and turns refer to struggles and lessons learned along the way. While not intended as a finger labyrinth, this piece could also be used for meditation by following the path with your finger.