Judy Bruce
Cave Creek residents Mike and Pat Markham will be featured in the Holland Center’s “Amazing Artists” series on April 14. They have been creating one of a kind, contemporary ceramic and sculptural works for many years and will be describing how art has shaped their lives as well as how their work has evolved over time.
Mike, who specializes in decorative and functional sculpture, began his career as an artist after studying art education and three dimensional design at Arizona State University where he received his MA and MFA degrees. He worked as a high school art teacher, university art instructor, and custom furniture designer. He uses a variety of media for his sculptures including metal, wood, glass, acrylic, and ceramic. “Throughout my career as a contemporary sculptor my work has evolved from carving wood and metal casting to multimedia constructions and minimalist functional art……”
Pat began taking pottery classes at night while teaching elementary school during the day. Now as a potter, she fulfills her artistic expression by creating functional and decorative ceramic pieces. Her work includes basic functional pieces as well as contemporary and sculptural forms. “….using clay as my medium and a potter’s wheel as my vehicle, I have found that taking a ball of clay from its sensual, wet, moldable state to the solid, smooth and colorful final product for others to enjoy gives me pleasure……and a sense of peace and serenity…”
Pat and Mike collaborate on many of their artworks. Together, they have participated in Hidden In The Hills events since 2007. They have provided bowls for the Empty Bowls project throughout the valley, and they teach beginning and intermediate pottery classes for the Terravita Art League.
Please join them at the Holland Center on April 14, 1 p.m.-3 p.m.
Later columns will discuss right and left brain processes and other outstanding Cave Creek, Carefree artists who give back to the community. Do remember—“You Gotta Have Art!”
