Dianne Lockerby

Having been on the ArTour for over 10 years, 2020 shakes us all up with the covid-experience but those of us on the ArTour 2020 are up to the challenge, extending all the social distance norms to our studio spaces. Once again Dianne Lockerby and Julie Fakler are together for Studio 10 but in 2020, due to covid restrictions, we have changed our location to the Paradise Center for the Arts on Central Avenue in downtown Faribault. Julie and I will be exhibiting in the same studios where we teach our classes for the Paradise Center. Another advantage is that the Paradise Center is fully handicapped accessible.

Due to all the ‘free time’ that covid presented me with, my work has taken a new turn. Yes, I will have my various bowls and functional ware that I so enjoy making, but this year my leaf faces have a bit more expression. Many of my new thrown pieces will have carvings on/in them. Tami Resler has presented several carving on clay classes that ‘have given me inspiration’ and I have been having fun decorating my pieces. I hope you like the new style.

I love the birds. In addition to the oriole bird feeders that I have been making, this year with my ‘covid-time’ I have started making some birdhouses! These fall into my whimsical category, although the birds may consider them functional. These birdhouses are all one of a kind and totally handmade. They start with a thrown clay jar at the center, onto which I add pieces which turn the handmade jar into a man’s face, a dog or cat’s head, a bird’s head, even a unicorn. Entry from the front, cleaning from the back and completely weather resistant as they are glazed. Fun and unique. These took me out of my normal realm of clay creation. I have covid to thank for the extra time to fill, and I did! Hope you like them!!

Looking forward to seeing those of you who will be venturing out for the ArTour!

Dianne Lockerby