Jan Goodrich Rentenaar

Artist Statement

I feel like I have seen the world through the eyes of an artist all my life. My mother is an accomplished sculptor and from a very early age encouraged my creativity. I started clay and drawing classes at "The "Junior Museum" and "Northwest College of Arts and Crafts", while still in grade school. I continued these classes and more at the Portland Art Museum School when I was in High school. I continued my education at The Evergreen State College" where I received a four year degree.

From the first moment I played with my Mother's sculpting clay, I knew this was media that could express all that my imagination could conjure up. When I was interviewed by "Garden Showcase" magazine they explained "What you see here is myth made reality by the hand of a sculptor. The sculptures she creates are rich in form, texture and meaning".

I am fascinated by the legends of the Japanese culture and Northwest Native Americans. I found a wealth of wisdom, humor and imagery. "A storyteller is one who creates the atmosphere in which wisdom reveals itself," said the great storyteller, Inookitook. I like that my sculptures have a story to tell. This way they transport you to their world . Like the woman who transform into a fox, Inari The Fox goddess. The sin of greed is so poignantly punished as in the legend of "The Legend of the Miser of Nisqually." Legends played such an important role in our ancestor's lives. "Helping our souls fly upwards toward the greater light" Ben Okri.

In the actual creation of my sculptures I constantly battle with and surrender to the unique qualities of clay. In my conversation with the clay it's important to me that the clay is allowed to speak. During the firing process the clay moves and shrinks sometimes cracking to reveal layers beneath, exposing it organic nature. I see these not  as cracks and flaws but as a statement as to the true nature of the material and the tortuous process of firing at 2300 degrees that the sculpture must survive. 'Tracks of the work should be left visible", states the artist DeKooning.

I love to research the culture that I am working with. The clothing the food. With this knowledge in mind I approach the figure. I balance the need to portray the culture of the legend accurately but still allow the spirit to be the strongest element. "The work of hands compels the mind to rest and gives free rein to the movements of the soul. " Diderot.