Biography
Born in Lafayette, Indiana to parents of Chinese nationality, ceramicist Beth Lo makes work about family, culture and language. Her Good Children vessels and sculptures have been exhibited internationally, and her work has been recognized by fellowships from United States Artists, the National Endowment for the Arts, the Montana Arts Council and the American Craft Museum. She is a Professor Emeritus of Art and taught Ceramics at the University of Montana from 1985-2016. Beth is also an award-winning children’s book illustrator and professional bass player for several musical ensembles.
Artist Statement
My work in ceramics and mixed media collage revolves primarily around issues of family and my Asian-American background. Cultural marginality and blending, tradition and Westernization, language and translation are key elements in my work. Since the birth of my son in 1987, I have been drawing inspiration from major events in my family’s history, the day-to-day challenges of parenting, and my own childhood memories of being raised in a minority culture in the United States. I use the image of the child to illustrate qualities of innocence, potential, vulnerability and play. I often make reference to traditional or popular Asian aesthetics, including calligraphy, origami, Socialist Realist artwork, Chinese food and restaurants, and Tang and Han Dynasty ceramics, often set in contrast to Western counterparts.
More information about Michael can be found at: bethlo.com
IG: @bethloceramics