I have always been drawn to the process of interaction and balance between the inner spiritual world and the visible outer world.
During my residency in Baltimore, much of the inspiration for these works came from the plants I observed along the 13-minute walk between my home and the studio each day. What I work with is not simply the plants themselves, but the way their forms, features, and stages of growth become symbols pointing toward the vital energy that all living beings inherently carry—an energy that drives us forward. Through this, I seek to reflect the ongoing process of living, growing, and self-healing.
I express this through layering glazes and repeated firings, intending to capture a state of energy in constant motion. I cannot predict after which firing I will feel a work is complete. Yet, knowing that I am allowed to keep adjusting and refining toward a state of satisfaction, the works remain in an ongoing “process” for me. In collaborating with the materials, I may guide the direction of color and texture, but what matters more is the moment after each firing—seeing the result, and deciding the next step. It is a continual process of sensing, choosing, and negotiating.
This mirrors the way I approach life: without over-planning or controlling, holding the awareness of choice while also flowing with the arrangements of the universe. Since beginning to explore this way of making, what materials bring me is no longer fear, but surrender and trust.
Yu-Shan, Cheng, was born and grew up in New Taipei City, Taiwan. Currently a third year student in the Ceramics group of the Graduate School of Applied Arts, Tainan National University of the Arts. Residence at the Keep in Touch International Porcelain Symposium in the Czech Republic in 2024, and graduated from the Bachelor of Fine Arts program at the National Taiwan University of Arts in 2023. She works in a variety of media, including fabric, ceramics, threads, and beads. Her work focuses on ritual, sacred space, life, energy, spiritual exploration, inner psychology, body and consciousness.
This exhibition highlights the history of Lormina Salter Fellowship. In Reflections, former fellowship recipients are inviting 16 contemporary ceramic sculptors focusing on narrative and figurative work.
On The Surface is an exhibition curated by alumna Shalya Marsh (‘11), highlighting five contemporary ceramic artists who explore the richness and complexity of surface embellishment.
New Kids On The Block is an exhibition showcasing the work of our incoming Resident Artists. This dynamic show offers a first look at the voices and visions shaping the future of ceramic art.
Raise a glass and celebrate the art of the pour at Baltimore Clayworks’ annual Oktoberfest 2025! This exhibition brings together a curated selection of ceramic artists from across the country, each contributing their unique take on the traditional beer stein and wine goblet.
Embrace the changing seasons with Baltimore Clayworks’ Community Arts Fall Showcase! This vibrant exhibition features an array of ceramic works created by participants in our community arts programs.
