Marguerita Hagan
Frustule Flower, Micro Grow Series
2014
ceramic
6.75 x 7.25 x 4.25"

Artist Statement:

What does light talk about? I asked a plant that once.
It said, 'I am not sure, but it makes me grow'
- Thomas Aquinas, 1225 - 1274

Oak trees know. Their roots graft into one flesh so they may share mutual sustenance, benefiting the community as a whole. When one tree is in need, the healthy ones direct their energy in support. This goes brilliantly macro with fungi, the underpins of the terrestrial realm. Their fiber optic-like mycelium likening a high speed internet connects life in the subterranean. Micro-marine organisms connect in exquisite mutually beneficial systems or colonies in the ocean and provide over 50% of all oxygen for the planet. Rich diversity and reciprocal sharing fuel thriving communities and environments. This light-giving flow has enabled all life to thrive for eons.

Inherent potential realized moves everything, even light itself.
It certainly moves me. My work is a response to this light. The interdependent forms and projects grow in a continuous heliotropic adventure, energized with every opportunity and connection.

Artist Bio:

Marguerita Hagan is a ceramic sculptor based in Philadelphia and an activist for the thriving of all life in mutually sustainable communities and environments. The concept of interdependence plays throughout her sculpture, teaching and community arts.

Throughout her career, Hagan has brought to light the beauty and engineering of our planet's diverse ecosystems and our powerful role as stewards. The intricate ceramic shines light on the wonder and respect for the fragile, diverse life with which our lives are intrinsically linked. Hagan's practice is an ongoing discovery, magnifying our awareness, reciprocal responsibility and protection of each other and our planet.

She received her MFA is from Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and her BFA in Ceramics at James Madison University. Her projects include collaborations with artists, scientists and community, environmental art-science residencies, lectures. Her work is in collections and exhibits nationally and internationally.

InLiquid, margueritahagan.com
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