I can’t recall when I first came across the work of Glen Martin Taylor but I can say that such vivid imagery stuck with me to the core. Taylor practices the ancient Japanese art of Kintsugi, the act of repairing dish ware basically. Who would have thought? But man is it good when Taylor’s hands are at work. Darkness abounds here and yet a pretty porcelain light remains. It is imaginative and certainly certain of itself. These works are immediate and gripping. A familiar nightmare for some and a hopeful message for others. Glen was kind enough to answer some questions about himself and his process.
Why porcelain dish ware? It seems obvious in an off the cuff sense that it almost represents a tranquil stability amongst family and friends. A quaint dinner and and a reminder of home. Is that why you chose these objects to represent the darker side of us all and how our society can hold up a false mirror?
-The dinner table for me, while growing up was difficult, the dishes reflect that tension and pain.
The writing on your pieces is always so poignant and to the point. What comes first? The written sentiment or the piece? Or is it sort of one quick phrase that sums up how it felt during the process?
-I have no specific order to my creative process, it flows out in many ways.
What’s the hardest part of working with your materials?
-This is what I live for, there are no hard parts
What initially attracted you to Kintsugi?
-The repair of brokenness as I have been trying to repair my brokenness.
How long have you been working in this medium for?
-Nine years.
Is there a specific piece of dishware that speaks to you the most?
-Everything I make speaks to me, otherwise I throw it in the trash
Do you have a favourite piece or one that gave you the most satisfaction to create?
-The one I made today is my favorite piece, the one I will make tomorrow will be my favorite piece.
Are you interested in exploring other mediums of art as well?
-I don’t have any limits or rules so I will use everything.
What is the strangest material you’d say you’ve incorporated into your work?
-The inside of my soul.
How has your sense of self changed since you began creating these works?
-I have accepted that I will always be in the process of healing through my work.
For more work by Glen Martin Taylor check out his website at glenmartintaylor.com