Artist Statement

Everyday rituals, shared meals, and quiet moments in the kitchen, shape the foundation of this body of functional ceramics. Handmade objects have the ability to bring people together, and my works are intended to live in people’s homes, to be held, worn in through use, and eventually passed down as part of a shared history.

Older aesthetics and traditional forms are central to this work because they feel familiar, steady, and intentional. Working within established styles provides a sense of comfort and control, as these forms have already stood the test of time. Using both handbuilding and wheel-throwing techniques, inspiration is drawn from vintage dishware and historical craft practices, reworked in ways that feel both relevant and personal.

At the core of this practice is a respect for usefulness, care, and longevity. Functional objects are valued for their ability to accumulate emotional weight through repeated use and daily interaction. By blending traditional forms with a contemporary sensibility, these ceramic wares are intended to feel comforting, enduring, and deeply connected to the people who use them.

Curatorial Statement

As a curator, my central focus lies in shaping the emotional and sensory experience of an exhibition. I am deeply invested in how both artists and audiences connect with a space—the moments of anticipation, reflection, satisfaction, and resonance that art can inspire when thoughtfully curated.

My approach prioritizes intentional design and atmosphere. Through careful consideration of layout, lighting, and spatial rhythm, I aim to create exhibitions that amplify the emotional depth of each artwork while maintaining a cohesive narrative across the collection.

For me, curating is an act of translation—transforming artistic vision into a shared experience that invites viewers to engage deeply and authentically. Each exhibition is an opportunity to evoke feeling, foster connection, and celebrate the dialogue between artist, artwork, and audience.

Biography

Grace Swank is a BFA and BA candidate at Adrian College, studying Studio Art and Arts Management. She is a practicing artist and emerging curator whose work bridges creative production, exhibition design, and community engagement. Grace has curated and assisted with exhibitions at the Hickman Gallery at Adrian College, supporting installations, documentation, visitor engagement, and event promotion. She has also gained professional experience in arts management through internships with the Adrian Symphony Orchestra, including work on concert logistics, marketing, and audience communications.