Much of my scholarly research has been focused in understanding Asian objects and the traditions that surround them. I have always been particularly drawn to Chanoyu (Japanese tea ceremony) and Gongshi (Chinese scholar rocks). The study of these have lead my studio investigations to examine how an aesthetic object can encourage a viewer to contemplate nature and time. My more recent interest in Japanese weaponry and ceremonial vessels are an extension of this past research. In examining weapons of antiquity, I was intrigued by the damage and wear that marked the object. These things, as well as the hues, textures and tarnish of metal surfaces revealed hints of the object’s past and left me reflecting on the notion of time.
My latest body of work pays homage to these artifacts of beauty. My forms reference historic ceremonial bowls and plates, but I have applied large ridges to the forms that are visual reference to historic weaponry.
Preston Saunders 2018


* photo credit: Stewart Clement