Information provided by the Artist: Jeffrey Paradis’ newest body of work shows sophistication paired with playfulness. He respects the history of the ceramic arts and looks to Japanese ceramics and the work of studio potters such as Ruth Duckworth and Hans Coper, but he takes those silhouettes and surfaces to innovative places. His work results from having explored countless forms to arrive at a subtle combination of elegant lines and a simplified palette of glazes. Most of his pieces are functional but ask not to be put away; they are sculptural and have their own merit. His recent vessel series (including A vase is a dangerous thing, #4) may look too delicate to touch and yet are strong enough to gently strum and make lovely music, sounding like an African Kalimba. They reference natural forms such as cacti, but they also evoke something entirely fresh.