Jay Levey

The challenge of developing an idea into a work of art, whether abstract or real, is an exciting process. In this, I call upon my wide knowledge of materials and methods from my engineering background that allows me to marry art and science.

My latest efforts bring together a sculptural approach and the RAKU glazing process. The landscapes are alive with brilliant color and metallic sheens resulting in a unique wall hanging. Clay surfaces are heavily textured and sculpted using a variety of found materials. The “Fish Series” tells the story of their life cycle and travels through the abstract landscapes included on them. Since I live in the Pacific Northwest, my work is heavily influenced by the local scenery and native cultures and use wood, wool, wire and beads to enhance my work. It is an ongoing development, as new ideas and materials constantly result in unique works.

My work starts from a rolled clay slab. I have accumulated a large variety of sculpting and texturizing tools which I use to sculpt the slab with my design. The dry clay is bisque fired in an electric kiln. I then apply the Raku glazes. The second firing is in a Raku Kiln which I built. The work is removed “red Hot” and then placed in a closed container filled with sawdust and shredded newspaper to create a reduction atmosphere. After cooling the work is matted and framed or mixed media may be added.

I have developed works of stone, wood, fused glass, metal and fiber. These have included furniture, stone sculpture, and mixed media ceramics. I currently teach a class in Hand Building Ceramics. I have been a member of the Golden State Sculptors and Northwest Stone Sculptors Associations and currently The Eastside Association of Fine Arts.

Recent shows:

At the 2005 and 2006 Juried Show of the Eastside Fine Arts Association, my Landscapes were selected for display.
In 2005, three of my pieces were juried into The Redmond Historical Society Art Contest for display.
My work was featured in a Solo show at the Stroum Jewish Community Center Gallery on Mercer Island, Washington in winter 2005.
Juried in for “The Best of the Northwest “ 2006 shows.
May – July 2006, Solo Show, Overlake Hospital “Healing Arts” program.
June 2006, Parklane Gallery Installation.

I have sold my work to various private collections and completed commissions.

Education includes various drawing, sculpture and ceramic classes at UCLA, Jewish Theological Seminary, and Florida Atlantic University. I have a degree in Engineering and a M.B.A. in Industrial Management.