Kate & Will Jacobson

"Our open studio in Hawaii is on a country road graced by a huge mango tree and an abundance of tropical flowers and ocean views. Living on an active volcano, we have a continual awareness of and respect for the fierce power and tender fragility of life. Looking at our art, you get a glimpse into our wonder- and awe-filled world. We create dreamlike imagery that evokes a nostalgic, emotional response. "

The Jacobsons believe everyone has a responsibility to listen to and see the world with an open mind, to challenge assumptions, to imagine what could be, and to communicate that truth. Their current work, Pacific Rim, is inspired by a growing awareness of climate change. Through art, they hope to raise awareness and celebrate the beauty and strength of the ocean that surrounds, nurtures, and unites us all.

The Jacobsons, collaborating artists since 1979, are widely recognized as the innovators of naked raku and mica infusion. These bare surface firing techniques reveal the unadorned, earthly beauty of clay, resulting in colorful, shimmering lusters. Both artists contribute to each piece of work, passing it back and forth so many times that it's impossible to separate one element from another.

Kate and Will's journey together has led them from their first art studio in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona, Arizona, to the enchanted forests of the Olympic Peninsula, and to their current tropical home on the Big Island of Hawaii. Each place has significantly influenced their aesthetics and their approach to object making. They continually experiment with fire and clay and openly share their discoveries.

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Selected Exhibitions & Awards
Through the Artist's Eye, Hawaii Volanoes National Park, Volcano, Hawaii, 2105
Hawaii Nei, Wailoa Center, Hilo, Hawaii, 2014
Earth Meets Fire: Contemporary Ceramics on Big Island, Donkey Mill Art Center, Holualoa, Hawaii, 2014
Collections
Hawaii State Foundation for Culture & Arts, Honolulu, Hawaii, 2015 "Crow's Eye View" Purchased for Public Collection
Hawaii State Foundation for Culture & Arts, Honolulu, Hawaii, 2015 "Conservation Conversation" Purchased for Public Collection