Funerary Urns

I use the vessel to evoke the individual and the universal; vessels are interwoven in our collective histories. "Journey" pictured here is one in a series of funerary urns. The fabric inscribed into the surface of the clay creates a sense of connection to the human experience and also references shrouds. I began this series as a way to process the loss of loved ones dear to me and provide a sacred container for their ashes. The vessel presents two visual arcs, one sweeping upward to the sky and another curving down towards the earth. These arcs symbolizes the balance of the upward spiritual journey of the departed's spirit and those left behind in the earthly realm. The atmospheric nature of wood firing echoes the unpredictability and richness of life and creates a sacred container. Inquiries heatherhietala@gmail.com