MEET THE ARTIST
Cynthia Pierce
In the last third of my life, I have joyfully returned to a childlike state of unrestrained creativity. My deepest desire is to make things, where my vibrant studio transforms into an inspiring playground of endless possibilities. Each bowl, drawing, and painting exists as a complete entity, with a singular train of thought guiding each individual piece, allowing it to stand independent of all my other works. From the confines of my small studio and the tranquility of my yard, I actively explore and capture the delicate thread that connects both old and new spaces. Utilizing a kick wheel that was thoughtfully crafted for me in Mexico, I embrace the challenge of experimenting with grolleg porcelain, dedicating my efforts to the earnest pursuit of the elusive “perfect bowl.” My Texas roots resurface prominently in my art, as enchanting scenes of “Texanna,” populated with cattle, horses, and rich dirt, vividly dominate my canvases. Color serves as my primary focus, both in the clay I manipulate and on the canvas I paint. You can consistently find me in my Austin studio each morning, deeply engaged in my work, and at Breath and Body Yoga each afternoon, practicing yoga to center my thoughts. My evenings are lovingly spent playing with my three beloved whippets, reading various books, and taking time to relax. This is, without a doubt, a fulfilling and meaningful life.
“My goal is to let each piece have its own space.
The clay tells me where it wants to go.”
Latin America called to me in the 90’s. The Guatamalan Highlands had the light and colors that I desired. “Chicken-buses” carried me from market to market with rolled up canvases and drawing pads. For three years I took up residence in San Miguel de Allende to study lithography and etching and to paint. Eventually, this led me to open my own gallery.
In 1988 I received a National Endowment Grant to study at the University of Pennsylvania where I had a easel at the Philadelphia Art Museum. My first of three one man show was in Brownsville in 1989. The Second in Austin in 1991, and the third in San Miguel de Allende 1995, Mexico.
The business aspect of art often creates tension between the realms of creativity and the demands of commercialism. Returning to the vibrant city of Austin has allowed me to reconnect with my passion for art in a more personal and inspiring space. My studio, nestled within the comforting embrace of my yard, serves as an intimate sanctuary where I can freely explore and experiment with new ideas and techniques. With the Kickwheel that was thoughtfully crafted for me in Mexico, I find immense joy in working with Grolleg porcelain, which has become a favorite medium of mine. My current focus centers around perfecting what I refer to as the “perfect bowl,” as I draw upon the rich cultural influences and traditions of my Mexican heritage. The skull motif has emerged prominently in my work, lending a unique decorative edge that deeply resonates with my background and artistic identity. Even though my paintings delve into a vibrant spectrum of color, my glazes generally emphasize a minimalist palette, predominantly consisting of studies in black, white, and various shades of grey. I consciously resist the label of a production potter; my aim is always to grant each piece its distinct individuality. In this creative process, the clay becomes a collaborative partner, gently guiding me in its own unique direction as I create each work.