Linda Kastner

Artist's Statement:

I live in Santa Fe, N.M. where I work and explore the possibilities of clay. In my work I impress upon the clay my interpretation of the textures and images I experience in the world around me.

My mother died a few years ago.  Among her belongings was a letter I had written to her more than 30 years before.  In that letter I said:

"I am really getting into pottery.  I feel that it is what I would like to do for the rest of my life..."

Although I have kept my hands in the clay, it has taken me over 30 years to finally be able to sell pots and teach ceramics. Of course, there is no making a good living, but corny as it still sounds, I feel fulfilled and satisfied.

I have studied at the Maude Kerns Art Center in Eugene Oregon, Laney College and Studio One in Oakland CA, The Mendocino Art Center in Mendocino CA, and Santa Fe Clay in Santa Fe NM.

I have participated in invitational group shows at the Toki Gallery in Berkeley, CA in June of 2000, and “On The Wing” in May 0f 2007 at the Exploding Head Gallery in Sacramento, CA.

Juried shows include: “Affinity for the Cup I ” in February 2003 and “Affinity for the Cup II ” in March 2006 at the Exploding Head Gallery in Sacramento, CA; “ In Our Cups ” at the Lockhart Gallery in Geneseo, NY in Aug/Sept 2005 where I received a purchase award;  “Feats of Clay XIX ” in May 2006 at The Gladding McBean Factory in Lincoln, CA; “By The Ounce” at Louisville Stoneware in conjunction with NCECA in Louisville, KY in March 2007; “7th Annual National Juried Cup Show” in May 2007 at the Kent State University, School of Art, Downtown Gallery in Kent, Ohio