Gayle Singer | Bridging Form

Gayle Singer is inspired by structural elements, growth processes, and the abstraction of forms found in nature. Energy, tension, and motion are compelling forces she continually strives to emulate in her work, best translated through how she manipulates and exaggerates the clay’s plasticity. Singer’s approach to the material is direct, yet responsive to its innate properties. The hand and material connection that clay provides, in relation to the use of the potter’s wheel, engages her physically and allows her to respond spontaneously.

Singer’s current sculptural explorations involve vertical forms that are assembled on a metal rod. The installation process provides flexibility with the orientation of multiple parts, contributes to the illusion of movement, and aids in the distribution of weight within a given sculpture. The incorporation of functional elements contributes to the structural foundation and establishes a format for interpretation and interplay. The introduction of a black and white palette with extreme textural surfaces helps to highlight the play of light and shadow, adding drama and intensity. The addition of saturated color evokes an element of surprise that helps to enhance the juxtaposition of parts within the composition, and invites a visual and tactile response.

Artist Biography 

Gayle Singer is Professor Emeritus of Art (Ceramics) at the University of Central Oklahoma. She taught at the University for twenty-two years and is now a full time studio artist. Her interest in clay began in 1973 as an undergraduate student. She has earned degrees from the following institutions: Central State University, Bachelor of Arts in Education 1981, Southwestern Oklahoma State University, Master of Education 1982, Kansas City Art Institute, Bachelor of Fine Arts (Ceramics) 1987, and New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University, Master of Fine Arts (Ceramics) 1989.

Her work has been widely exhibited in international, national, and regional exhibitions. She was published in Lark Books 2nd addition 500 Teapots, and has been featured in Ceramics Monthly “Ceramic Dance: The Works of Gayle Singer” by Tony Merino and Studio Potter “Oklahoma Potters”. Her work is in permanent collections including: Spencer Museum of Art, the University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art, Johnson County Community College, Johnson County, Kansas, and Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art at the University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma.

Opening Reception: Friday, September 11, 5-7 pm