Ceramics 1, 2, & 3

Issue 2

Pages

Mr. Pataconi: I have been teaching art at Wausau East High School for the past 21 years. I feel lucky to have spent my entire career in one school. It has allowed me to develop so many connections with students and families in the Wausau community. Few things are greater than watching a student grow in confidence to create art works that they're proud of. I enjoy teaching and love to make art. For me, the art making process is therapeutic. It helps me regain focus and balance. Pablo Picasso once said, "art washes from the soul the dust of everyday life." I believe this is very true. I draw, paint, and construct assemblage boxes and sculptures. Most of my works are made from found objects that many would consider to be junk. I like giving these discarded items new purpose and function. This style of work feels very much like play, but is also presents the ultimate in problem-solving. Working with found items also fulfills my need to find and collect things as well as my desire to reuse, renew, and recycle. I admire many artists, but the two that most inspire my work are Joseph Cornell and Robert Rauschenberg.

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