02/06/10 – Artists’ Co-op – Hamilton and Mason

Thomas Hamilton creates ceramics pieces inspired by the outdoors. He developed his own blend of stoneware clay over the last 40 years of studio work. His extensive research led to using multiples glazes to create dynamic pieces that often include references to clouds, wind and water. “The unique properties of clay make it limitless,” Hamilton said. “I can move it easily – push, pull, add or subtract.” He creates wheel-thrown as well as hand-built pieces.

Jean Mason’s energetic paintings feature movement and bright colors. Perhaps best known for her portrayal of musicians, Mason has created new works that are spontaneous, loose and affordable. In these large-scale paintings on canvas pieces, she explores relationships, communication, listening to one’s instincts and the connections to powers beyond us. “They are about having fun, living with joy and intention, connecting and feeling alive,” she said. “The series comes from a scrap of paper on the wall in my studio that says ‘there's a bold bright spot where my soul wants to be.’ ”