J. Bennett: Artist/ Master Sculptor
J. bennett describes her studio as "my Cathedral to the Human Spirit." Here is a
few quotes and words about the studio;
SACRED GROUND STUDIO/GALLERY
"Artists have always been the shaman, the holy men."
Named by the friends who were helping to laying the concrete floor on
the first day of it's construction, the studio lies hidden in plain
view between Mt. Ka'ala, Oahu, Hawaii, and the sea, near the "Jumping
Off Point Of The Souls", Kaeana Point.
The work done inside is
mysterious, like all spiritual practices; one never knows what will
come out next. An invitation by the artist to see inside reveals a
ceiling mural of the blue sky, a dropped-antler chandelier, and stained
glass window. The open french windows emit the soft sounds of ancient
music and chants from all over the world.
A closer inspection reveals
Buster, a jewel-like sun conure, perched in his usual spot, watch the
goings-on. Built by hand in 2002 by Bennett and her mate, Bruce, it is
testament to what can be done with recycled materials. The framework
for the roof and windows were from a nearby structure. Clay, metal,
wood, painting and photography are all done here. At less than 400
square feet, it is jammed pack with things to see- finished work, work
in progress, ideas still being assembled and thrown about. The 24 cubic
foot kiln, whom she calls "Tequa",(meaning to run forth with light,
like a torchbearer) dominates the room with it's massive presence.
When firing, the flames inside get to almost 2400 degrees.
The work of
the artist, J. Forest Ocean Bennett, focuses on what is deep inside us,
beyond our superficial illusions of differences. The work is
cross-cultural, and combines many different religions, yet transcends
them, going back to a time when all religions were one; when we were
whole, close to Mother Earth and our true natures.
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