James North Art Collective

Clay artist, Barb Sachs draws her inspiration from the natural forms of the animal world. Barb uses many hand-building techniques in the creation of her animals, but, most notably employs thick sheets of clay, or slabs, which are folded and shaped in an origami like method to produce a hollow, sculptural form – a form which lends itself to the rigours of the raku firing process.

The variation of glaze effects that the raku technique allows provides the palette for these creatures and serves to create an aged quality in the work. Polar bears, elephants, penguins and frogs are among the creatures represented as well as her newer work … her whimsical ‘night creatures’ and ‘party animals’ series.

Barb has worked in clay using the raku firing process for the last 17 years in the Hamilton/Dundas area –creating original designs and showing and selling locally and abroad. Her work can be found in many collections here and internationally. Among her greatest honours, Barb’s signature polar bears have been presented to His Excellency President Nelson Mandela and to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Biter (16inx12in)

Wheeled Wolf (10in x 10in)