Harlan Butt

Harlan Butt has used enameling in his vessel works. He draws his techniques from traditional Chinese enameling and metal-smithing. Cloisonné is use in many of his current pieces, which is a process that creates a repeating pattern on the surface of the vessel. He relates to the traditions of Zen Buddhism and the tea ceremony, an influence that appears in his work. He relates the repeating pattern in his work to the cell structure in plants and animals as well as the starring of the sky. This relates to our lives where repetition creates structure in chaos. He takes simple objects from nature and elevates them. He is inspired by flora, fauna and natural surroundings and also by discovering connections between one thing and another. In his work he wants the viewer to interact with and engage his work. His work has been exhibited internationally and his work is a part of several permanent collections internationally as well.


Earth Beneath Our Feet: Colorado Horizon #1
2006
Silver, enamel
4.5" x 5" x 5"