Jaymes Dudding
Jaymes is a ceramic sculptor. He holds B.A and M.A. degrees from the University of New Mexico and an M.F.A. degree from the University of Oklahoma. Jaymes retired in 2003 at the rank of full professor from the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma. Dudding was head of the Ceramic Department. Upon retiring, he returned to live in his family home in Rio Rancho, NM. where he set up his in-home sculpture studio.
Following his retirement, he taught high school art for 10 years at Walatowa High Charter School in Jemez Pueblo. Dudding was also employed as an Adjunct Instructor at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe. Presently,
Dudding works daily in his in-home studio where he resides with his wife Diane. He is the proud grandfather of four young ladies.
Dudding is awed by the immensity and complexity of life itself. His one-of-a-kind ceramic sculptures are his attempt to explore and honor those mysterious forces we all sense but find fleeting.
MOTHER
Artist Statement
My sculptures are variations of the cylinder, vase, plate. From this foundation my sculptures have evolved into a body of work inspired by the Divine Feminine. The abundance of symbolic forms throughout time on pottery vessels, female figurines and other objects has persuaded me that these works are much more than decorative motifs. They belong to an un-deciphered language of the metaphysical. Among the graphic designs on these artifacts are found primal insignias of the snake, bison, egg, heart and womb. The water-carrier is a familiar image of the goddess and associates her with the waters of life, and ultimately, the mysterious vortex of the Universe itself. These powerful forms have inspired my ceramic sculptures. Such objects have been essential elements in ancient rituals and sacred ceremonies for eons. Images such as these were integral parts of ritual offerings and sacrifices. They were created to honor and enchant the perceived energy personified by Mother Nature.
Goddess of Childbirth, 2000