B. I. R. D.
On display in the South Gallery of the Columbia Art League
January 28 - February 22
Reception: Wednesday, February 5, 5:30-7 pm
Artist's Statement
"B.I.R.D. (Bowers, Inns, Roofs & Dens)" is a collaborative showcase born from a relaxed ekphrastic exchange between ceramicist Pam Sisson and soft pastel artist Hope Martin. Pam's whimsical ceramic creations, accented with fanciful wirework, pair beautifully with Hope's vibrant pastel art. Together, their work playfully explores the idea of homes—whether bowers, inns, roofs, or dens—offering a delightful and inspiring tribute to the diverse habitats of the natural world.
Artist Bio: Hope Martin
Hope Martin is an artist based in Columbia, specializing in pet and animal portraits. Since 2014, she has been honing her skills in the mediums of soft pastels, charcoal and graphite, creating lifelike representations that capture the spirit and individuality of animals. Her journey into art began after stepping away from a career in graphic design to focus on her family, a decision that allowed her to rediscover her passion for creativity and the natural world.
Spending time outdoors with her children became a source of inspiration, reigniting her connection to nature and fueling her artistic pursuits. These experiences shaped her approach, blending her design background with a methodical and heartfelt artistic process.
Today, her work centers on the stories and connections shared between people and their pets, as well as the wild beauty of animals. Each stroke of pastel or charcoal is a tribute to the intricate details and vibrant personalities that make every animal unique. Hope’s work has been featured in local exhibitions and has become cherished by pet owners seeking heartfelt tributes to their companions. Her dedication to capturing the essence of animals has earned her a loyal following and numerous commissions, reflecting her ability to connect deeply with her subjects and their stories. Through her art, she aims to preserve cherished memories and celebrate the profound bonds shared with animal companions.
Artist Bio: Pamela Sisson
Pamela is a potter because one day, some years ago, she walked into the door of Squarepeg Art Studio. The many talents and muses of artists/owners Peg Craig and Nancy Gause and the many members of the studio sparked in her an unknown passion to work with clay. Pamela has shown work in various places around Columbia, Missouri, been juried into Columbia Art League shows, earned recognition for pieces in the Boone County Art Shows and was awarded Missouri Top 50 at the 2017 Missouri State Fair Fine Arts Show.
Pamela’s body of work includes hand built ceramic bird houses, pitchers, sun/moon thematic pieces and more. Lighthearted whimsy and escape are the driving forces in her art. Inspired from youth by her dad who was a building contractor turned retired bird house maker, she is also greatly influenced by the people, cultures, music and art of the countries where she has lived and visited, and the world of nature. Design and color are the unifying forces allowing her clay to become what it wants to be. She combines clay, wire, metal, wood and more to complete her pieces. Naming each piece creates the thrill of adding literary art to her handiwork.
