Artist Statement
The ceramic plates are experimental and use American Sign Language (ASL). Porcelain plates are created by a slab rolled, cut out the circles to add on slump mold that is the hump of plaster after the mold shapes the dishes, then becomes bone-dry dishes and adds image print transfer of drawing as decoration on the center of dishes before the fire. After the first firing, add a clear glaze for the shine and food safety for the final firing.
The ASL plates are inspired by the concept of “Dinner Table Syndrome,” which is an experience a Deaf person tends to have when left out of their family’s conversations around the dinner table. Even though one is physically there, it seems impossible to be present as a Deaf person given that everyone is talking while enjoying a meal together. It becomes a challenge to catch what everyone is saying. These plates’ goal is to remind anyone who is eating together. To also promote change within family and friend dynamics to become curious about ASL with the deaf person at the table. Each of the five plates has a different variety of signs with a few meanings behind each plate. These images on the plates will not be about ASL itself but instead talking about other things together. Communication is the language’s purpose for Deaf people. The glazed outline in sign language shows a hidden positive message on the plate when people finish eating their meal. The hope for these plates is that people begin to consider and show a willingness to learn to sign and learn more about their Deaf family members, friends, or someone important in their life in the process.
