Kate Arford is a ceramic artist studying at Arizona State University. She has worked in ceramics for 8 years and taught wheel throwing for various studios across Arizona. Kate has also created site specific installations at locations like Consanti, Danelle Plaza, and Ice House. Her work focuses on kinetic objects, drawing inspiration from the playful nature of toys.
Artist Statement
Dreaming was a primary form of play for me as a child, an escape into a world where I could show up and engage without the burdens of anxiety. My dream world wasn’t one filled with fairies and dragons; instead, it was a space for freedom and possibilities. In my work, I create kinetic objects that are reminiscent of toys, embodying my journey of nostalgia, loss, and whimsical exploration. I primarily work in ceramics, often combining it with light and metal.
These pieces are not simply objects; they are portals that invite a dialogue between fantasy and reality. Through this tension, I reflect on the complexity of our experiences—how we long to escape yet must confront the truths of our existence. My creative process empowers me to indulge in new realities, allowing my dreams to exist for tangible moments outside my mind. Each piece encourages playful engagement, offering a brief respite from the painful truths of life. I invite you to step into this imaginative space, to reflect on your own experiences of growing up, and to embrace the fleeting nature of these moments.