Bio
Peyton Pickenpaugh is a sculptor who combines and reimagines natural objects, such as driftwood and insects, with original ceramic sculptures, traditional textiles and found heirlooms. She grew up in a potter’s studio, taught and studied in Japan, completed a B.A. and M.A. in History from the University of Mississippi, and taught Art for over 15 years, before becoming a full-time artist. Peyton has exhibited her work in galleries in San Francisco and New Orleans.
Artist Statment
Just as a tree covers itself with new bark as it heals, people build layers of meaning
around past traumas to create new narratives. In this body of work, I combine modular
ceramics, natural objects, traditional textiles and family heirlooms in an attempt to
deconstruct and reassemble personal and collective memories.
I consider the objects that surround me as potential portals to the past. Bark from the
tree in my yard can act as an entry point into perceiving patterns in nature, while antique
mourning paraphernalia might act as a reminder of a world where everyday rituals and
tools were packed with symbolism and magic. I like to interact with things I know my
ancestors actually saw or felt, connecting us through time.
around past traumas to create new narratives. In this body of work, I combine modular
ceramics, natural objects, traditional textiles and family heirlooms in an attempt to
deconstruct and reassemble personal and collective memories.
I consider the objects that surround me as potential portals to the past. Bark from the
tree in my yard can act as an entry point into perceiving patterns in nature, while antique
mourning paraphernalia might act as a reminder of a world where everyday rituals and
tools were packed with symbolism and magic. I like to interact with things I know my
ancestors actually saw or felt, connecting us through time.
