In 1993, my grandfather passed away from complications due to
colon cancer. It was startling discovery to all the men in my family
when we realized the disease was hereditary. My father then
discovered he was suffering from an enlarged prostate. While dealing
with the death of my grandfather and my father's newly discovered
problems, I buried myself in school, primarily in pottery, which
allowed me to focus and keep things in perspective.
Memorial Urn #1 draws inspiration from the metalworking tools I
inherited from my grandfather. The copper inlays on this piece show
his impact on my life. Memorial Urn #2 is rooted in my ability to
cope with stress. With every new urn, a little weight is lifted from
my head, shoulders and heart.