In January 2013, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. The symptoms and fears prompted me to create large-scale, coil-built sculptures with frayed, deteriorated, or unplugged electrical cords, symbolizing the degenerative nature of the disease. The forms were also calm and meditative, making them appear contemplative and spiritual. The message being the heart may have deep desires to do one thing, but the brain may send messages of fatigue, doubt, fear, or conflicting logic. As my work evolved, so did my perceptions of the disease. I was able to move from fear and uncertainty to peace and hope which is reflective in my current sculptures.
Most recently, my work addresses the more general human experience of trials, stress, and resilience, all part of my experience with MS, and where to find deep abiding peace. I express this journey through sculptures that use metaphors of meditation, prayer, and spiritual discovery, as well as magical moments of comfort and joy that come from meaningful relationships with loved ones.
My work is mainly constructed of high-fired stoneware using the coil method, then adding electrical hardware, lights and found objects. Inspiration for the sculptural forms, stylistically, comes largely from ancient Cycladic art, but also includes Modigliani, Brancusi, Giacometti, Klimt, the colossal heads of the Olmec, and the giant monolithic sculptures of the Rapa Nui people of Easter Island.
Ryan Moffett was born and raised in South Ogden. He graduated from Bonneville High school where he studied art and ceramics under David W. Jackson. In 1997 he graduated from Utah State University with a BFA in Ceramics and Art Education, while being mentored under John Neely. In 2005 he earned his Masters Degree in Art Education and was fortunate to study under Von Allen. He now lives in Murray, Utah where he teaches ceramics and sculpture at Murray High School.