“Desert Dreamscapes”
An imaginative exploration of the flora and fauna of our wild landscapes.
Featuring Ceramic Sculptures and Pottery as well as Paintings by Vanessa Zavala Clark

Artist Statement

Desert Dreamscapes is an imaginative exploration of the flora and fauna of our surrounding, wild, and vibrant Chihuahuan desert landscapes. This body of work, which includes texture rich ceramic sculpture, pottery, and paintings, is inspired by desert plants and wildlife touched by a sense of whimsy and surrealism.

The wide variety of animal sculptures tell a story of belonging in the desert and finding one’s home. I have also drawn inspiration from Western and Mexican culture, referencing colorful alebrije patterns and Southwest imagery. The the surface treatments on plant-like forms are rough and spiny, but also inviting and beautiful like our plentiful desert. I find the duality of subjects very fascinating and try to showcase the opposites that balance each other, and I see the differences as positive. Several pieces are fantastical dream-based ideas that couldn’t possibly exist in our reality.

Overall, this collection is a creative and playful view of the desert, uplifting those who may view our arid wilderness as barren and uninspiring. Some people may take for granted the grandeur of it – just a view from the Interstate on daily commutes. I hope to encourage people to explore outdoors, enjoy our trails, and view the abundant natural beauty that inspires me to create. We could all benefit from taking the time to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature.