Ames Sawyer

Photographic Works
My photography work has mostly been comprised of frames created from built environments and objects emphasizing shape and pattern. I enjoyed using  reflection, and shadows to create further emphasis and interest. With human subjects I like to use digital imaging to explore compositing and mixing color emphasis to again produce interest in otherwise basic portraits.

Drawing, sgraffito, linoleum, and reliefs

I deeply enjoy sgraffito and linoleum printing which fits my interest in patterns and texture. Experimenting further with relief and texture I began incorporating my love of LEGOs and the fun of tactile manipulation. Pencil work lets me explore not only pattern but how to produce texture and explore other freehand techniques.

Ceramics

My ceramic work often incorporates ideas around place, nature and natural forms. I especially enjoy pinchpot techniques and incorporating texture where possible such as with my Watermelon Bowl.

Sustained Investigation
My most recent sustained investigation focused on communicating concepts around autism.

I created kinetic sculptures as an overall connection to autism connected to fidgeting and stimming -- two autistic traits. Each unique piece also explored further concepts related to autism.

• Clay heads sat on a technical base constructed from LEGO gearings that synchronized  each head from making direct eye contact with any other head as each sculpture rotated.

• A mobile was created from a process that dictated a constraint of randomly chosen parts to explore the struggle with uncertainty and unstructured activity.

• Moveable and bendable wire connectors let people play and explore a depiction of anxiety and sensory overload.