Satellite Events

This installation captures a moment of introspection and invites viewers to find solace and reflection. In Celtic culture, tree branches represent strength and endurance. Symbolically, a tree branch also represents the interconnectedness of all living things. Just like the branches of a tree are connected to the trunk, we are all connected to one another through our experiences, choices, and actions. In yoga, Balasana (child’s pose) is a symbol of surrender and protection, evoking the notion of finding shelter amidst life's storms. My hope is to encourage a deeper appreciation and responsibility for the natural world and our connection to it.

Childlike surrender opens the pathways of grace which, when there is nothing left to rely on, is all anyone has. Only in surrender can one truly open themselves up to receive, and only when receiving the universe’s love and grace can anyone give that love and grace to others. – Elephant Journal

Constance McBride

Statement

I've been working with clay since 2006. Living in the Southwest, where pottery traditions have lasted thousands of years, greatly influenced my approach to it.  I get my inspiration from nature's rhythms and depict the cycle of life with reverence while acknowledging the untidiness of living. And I tend to throw light on issues experienced by women—harassment, marginalization, ageism, etc. Simultaneously, women struggle to remain relevant, take care of their health, and maintain financial stability. And like most women, I've had firsthand experience with a lot of it; from finding my way as a young single mother to having spent over a quarter century in the corporate world, to navigating the art world later in life. I'm interested in the recurring interplay between liberation and constraint, a tension that has been ongoing throughout time, and support a purposeful dialogue about the roles and perceptions of women in contemporary society. Other themes central to my work are memory loss and melancholy. My uncompromising figures are hand built and at times include bits of nature, found objects, fabric and wires. I apply surface treatments such as graphite or stains and wax to emphasize the textures and characteristics of living, breathing skin. My figures are displayed as solitary objects on plinths or hung on walls to create an intimate viewing experience, or as part of larger installations—interacting with other related works to foster an immersive environment. Drawing from nature’s energy, I want to generate new spaces for regeneration and resilience.

Bio

Constance McBride draws attention to gender-based issues using ceramic sculpture and installations, addressing difficult topics like ageism and mortality. Notable solo exhibitions include The Melancholic Joy of Living at Chesapeake Gallery (MD), The Lonely Girls at Abington Art Center (PA), The Lonely Girls at Tubbs Gallery, Rehoboth Beach (DE) and From the Hearts of Stars at Phoenix Institute of Contemporary Art (AZ). Her work has appeared in group shows at museums and galleries around the country including at Phoenix Art Museum (AZ), The Delaware Contemporary (DE), Woodmere Art Museum and The Clay Studio (PA), San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts (TX) and Archie Bray Foundation (MT). Recent awards include a Sculpture Residency at Buffalo Creek Art Center (NV), the Jacques MacCuiston Dowling Award for sculpture (Woodmere Art Museum), and grants from The Puffin Foundation and Philadelphia Sculptors.  Her work has received attention locally and abroad with features in several publications including Suboart Magazine (PT), Inspirational Art Magazine (UK), Yahoo News (Cities Rising Series w/Katie Couric), Philly's Artblog and more. Her piece Will There Ever be Peace is featured in the book, Paper Clay Art and Practice by Rosette Gault. McBride earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Arcadia University, Glenside, PA.

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