My curiosity in art started at an early age with arts and crafts which included carving potatoes to use in fabric painting and personalized greeting cards. There came a time in the late 80’s where I had the need to find a larger canvas.  And in that search, I found stone carving.  

I had always been drawn to primitive sculpture and its ability to tell a story and portray emotions within a beautiful, simple form.  

With stone, hammer and chisel in hand, I found my home. Releasing the treasure within is a physical and magical process that I fell in love with.   

In 2007 my life was forever changed with the sudden loss of my husband.  I had to rebuild my life as a single, independent woman. Part of that was finding a new way to express myself through my art. Again, needing to find a new voice, I was directed to clay and found my new home.  It has not only allowed me to grow as an artist, but it was a key factor in moving through my grief.

Sometimes I wonder where this creative energy comes from. I am very conscious and present in choosing the subject of a project. But as I work, I tap into an unconsciousness that creates a bond between the work and my heart. It is in this state that I become one with the work, where meaning, emotions and experiences are expressed into the work. 

As the sculpture progresses its voice will begin to dictate where it wants and needs to go. It is at that point that I must let go of any control I think I have and enjoy the ride. What lives within me ultimately lives within each piece of my art.

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Part of this process starts the moment I enter the studio. This is a place where creation exists and breeds, a room full of possibilities and opportunities for anything to happen. It is in this environment that I get lost in space and time, where there are no boundaries to what can be accomplished.  It is akin to meditation where thoughts flow with the freedom to keep some, and let others go, working through the challenges unique to each piece. Truly my happy place. A place to dream, where my heart and soul are one.

Priscilla Panzer is an artist inspired by her personal journey, nature, and the beauty of a simple line.