The ability to create art has been for me an unexpected gift. I was one of those people who felt that I did not have any talent. Now, I have come to believe that desire, mixed with instruction, can open many windows.

     I began painting late in life. The first time I picked up a paint brush was for a one day class at a local craft store in 1999. Thus began my artistic journey.

     Shortly after my first painting class, I began to pursue another desire which was to work with clay. I can remember taking a class with my grandmother when I was a child and making a figurine from a mold. Maybe that was the spark for my desire and now love for working with clay.

 Tonya Hedgeman, who is primarily self-taught with a foundation received from a community art center, has worked with clay since 2003 and is a hand-builder. Her journey into the world of clay was enveloped in a personal story fueled by a need to take a stand for self loyalty. She attributes her talent as being a gift from God. Each of Tonya’s pieces is created intuitively and her work reflects things that she has read, seen in nature, internal impressions and experiences. Tonya applies the decorative texturing by hand with individual strokes using found objects or tools that she has made. Tonya states “It is my desire that the beholder of my work is touched in a way that is personally and uniquely special”.

Originally from Savannah, she currently resides in Woodstock, Georgia with her husband and three sons.

 Artist Statement

 The textures which are applied to my work represent a person’s journey. I apply each texture mark individually. This is done to simulate how, in life, each step we take has to be taken one at a time; often times differing from the step taken before.

The integration of textured and non-textured surfaces is a reminder that “this too shall pass.”

The inclusion of the cavity in some of my pieces reflects the innate desire for wholeness and the need to fill our lives with purpose. As a consequence of this desire, the choices we make direct our steps.

In life we follow a path that is filled with valleys, mountains, and smooth places. When you view my work, I hope that it will cause you to take a moment and reflect on your personal journey.

     
I would like to thank those who have purchased my work and have invested in me. I appreciate and am humbled by your support.

Tonya     

But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.

Isaiah 64:8

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