Eva Gallagher has always enjoyed working with clay. "Even as a kid I loved sculpting," reported Gallagher. "Whether it was polymer clay or air-dry clay, I loved making art that occupied a three-dimensional space," said the recent Warwick High School (WHS) graduate.

Fellow WHS 2021 graduate Emily Paynter did not realize her love of the medium until she was a junior. "Ceramics first sparked my interest last year (during) first semester in my sculpture class," she noted.

Both students were taught by WHS faculty member Nate Nixdorf, who recognized their talents and suggested they enter the American Museum of Ceramic Art's (AMOCA) 2021 annual High School Exhibition Program. Since 2014, AMOCA has hosted an annual juried exhibition showcasing the work of high school students studying the ceramic arts. Gallagher's piece, called "Under Pressure," a representation of a foot stepping on a head, and Paynter's "Chameleon," a detailed lizard perched on a mug, were both selected by AMOCA, and their work was exhibited virtually from WHS.

The foot sculpture that gained Gallagher recognition was inspired by her seeking the answer to the question, "How can I convey emotion through the human form?" "I had previously made sculptures with hands and busts, so I wanted to explore the next challenge in anatomy: feet," explained Gallagher. Looking to incorporate emotion in the piece, Gallagher said as she began sculpting she realized she could create a scene of a foot stepping on a head. "The coolest part about the piece is that it retains some function, as the ankle is hollowed and could be used as a very unique type of vase," she noted.

Paynter also wanted her piece to be both functional and sculptural. Continuing with the animal theme that was the focus of an independent study, she pictured the chameleon tail as a useful appendage. "I could envision a chameleon perched on the edge of a mug with its tail wrapping around into a handle," she shared.

Paynter said that her journey in 3D art has been positively influenced by Nixdorf. "While taking Ceramics 1, Mr. Nixdorf reached out to me and offered me a spot for an independent study second semester, which really encouraged my interest in ceramics," Paynter shared. "He encouraged me to push my limits on size, think critically and experiment beyond solely functional pieces." Likewise, Gallagher said that Nixdorf has guided her by encouraging her to attend Alfred University in Alfred, N.Y., where she will study in the fall. Not only has Nixdorf influenced her to refine her skills and discover her style, but Gallagher noted that he has also led her to discover a passion for art and provided constant support.

Gallagher said she loves working with clay because the medium combines function and visual interest. Paynter agreed that ceramics hold her interest for the same reason. "What I also really like about ceramics is the fact that you can incorporate art into everyday life due to its functionality," she shared.