Influences in my ceramic work are interests in Architecture, Archaeology, and History and I strive to create forms and surfaces that, at once, embody a sense of present and ancient time. Works that achieve that desire appear to have been lifted from ancient tombs. Further, the use of archetypal imagery through associative play allows exploration of many overlapping ideas, e.g.: denial of function, puns, contradictions, juxtapositions,etc. I explore those associative images, floating up from the depths, which are meaningful to me…and hopefully through the work, to others.

Most of my work is earthenware, either electric-fired or wood-fired in barrels using foil saggers, and manipulated or modified as desired. Although I strive to control basics, ultimately the process retains its own magic and secrets, so that every piece is a delightful discovery. I find this process extremely satisfying—mining and compounding workable clay to complete fired object laden with its message. It has been said that clay folk tend to

Be mud daubers or pyromaniacs—I am both.

Darryl’s Website: http://visualartexchange.ning.com/profile/DarrylWally