Monika Debus

My works combine clay in its plastic properties with an abstract, free painting.
With my vessel-sculptures, sculptures and wall works I try to explore boundaries and - even more – try to create connections between vessel and sculpture, painting and sculpture, tradition and modernity.

I am more interested in the imaginary space I can create than the actual one.
At its best, a piece opens up a whole space of possibilities, of free associations and feelings for the particular viewer. Clay and slips are the simplest means to work in ceramics. Complicated things are rather far from me, and I try to meet this fact with a simple slab building or also bead technique (the most original of all manufacturing techniques).

A great experience and craftsmanship I can not deny, but it is expressly not my goal to show this. 

I take my inspiration from what I encounter every day, people, music, nature.... but also from my daily work with the material.

The salt firing modulates the surface from light to dark and gives the works a gentle depth. Chance plays a deliberate role in this. I find it very exciting to use this ancient firing method of the Westerwald to gain new, modern aspect.