Interesting
exhibit of polymer clay sculptures from graduate student W. Jeff Littlejohn:

The exhibit, “Imagined Lives,” which opened yesterday, follows the spirit of “Wind,” with its collection of sculptures of life-size humans and animals presented in their natural form.

The pieces — constructed individually from minimal wooden armatures, layered with crumpled paper and duct tape, then formed with polymer clay — will be on display throughout the week, free and open to the public for viewing.

In creating the environment for the pieces, Littlejohn has placed the full-color pieces on the floor of the gallery, in lieu of pedestals. He said he chose to do so to “create the effect of interacting with and inhabiting the same space as the viewer.”

All the pieces in W. Jeff Littlejohn’s exhibition are aimed at creating characters living in their own habitat and illustrating their unique stories. This is a realistic and somewhat threatening-looking wolf.

“By hinting at surrounding events and situations I attempt to expand the environment of the individual represented beyond what is completely shown,” he said.

In contrast to the organic nature of the individuals in his pieces, Littlejohn uses humor, motorized features and other accessories from the real world — which are often incongruous to the pieces — to add another dimension.

I found this article which gives directions for kids on how to sculpt some simple critters. It’s nice to see these types of articles encouraging kids to be creative and try polymer clay.

Came across this article on Meridith Dittmar and her polymer clay work. The article doesn’t have many pictures so check out her website to see her sculptures – they’re worth a look, and I’m pretty sure they’ll give you a smile.

Meredith Dittmar’s art exists in a world of its own. Literally. Her polymer sculptures, or as she calls them “my Guys,” exist in a space as shaped by graffiti and disobedience as it is by the saturated world of Saturday morning cartoons. They are at times aloof and playful, as sweet and innocent as they are bright. Since 1994 more than 10,000 Guys have come into existence with Dittmar creating a virtual society — distinctly varied and influenced. And therein lies the strength of Dittmar’s sculptures; contrasting life seems to emanate from each piece, her characters containing distinct soul.