Work Samples
Sharlene Friedman
Art is central to my life. After completing a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art, I came from South Africa to Canada in 1987 to study Art Therapy. I am currently a practicing Art Therapist and a certified practitioner of Jin Shin Jyutsu®, Physio Philosophy an energy balancing art, that harmonizes the body. My own creative expression includes pottery, oil painting, and jewelry design.
Pottery is a way I can dialogue with spirit and renew my inner harmony. My interest in potting began when I was sixteen. I studied then with a renowned South African potter Digby Hoets, who is known for his architectural high fired durable planters. My South African heritage has influenced my personal growth and is often present in my pottery.
Intrinsic to the clay work is the connection I develop with each vessel or object. I hear what it “wants to say” and then allow the creative play of imagination and nature to guide me through the process. In this way each of my creative expressions is unique. All my pieces are hand built; I pinch, paddle and coil my forms. Natural oxides and slips provide my main palette of colors, complemented with various glazes. I often make variations on a theme ending up with ‘families’ of similar pieces so they can continue the dialogue together. I took this dialogue one step further when I began making clay rattles in the shape of seed-pods so that they could be utilized as musical instruments. Using clay as my medium helps keep me connected to Mother Nature and the constant ever-transforming vessel she is, helping my clients and me continue in our own journeys of transformation.
Previous solo exhibitions in Canada
1988, 1989, London Ontario
1990, 1991 Toronto, Ontario
Group show 2005, 2006,2007, 2008, 2009, 2011,2012 Toronto
A Fair with the Goddess 2008 Toronto
Soulscapes 2008 Toronto
