Some of the Story
Doni Langlois creates sculptural statement pieces using clay and richly textured surfaces. Inspired by the stories that humans share, her work ranges from humorous to contemplative to simply natural. By incorporating found metal and wood, she adds a layer of story to each piece. Her background in interior design and decorative painting gives her a strong understanding of a piece’s impact in an interior space as well as influencing the surface texture.
“My methods are hand building techniques – pinching large wads of clay or the use of soft slabs. Organic shapes are favored and while an idea is in mind, it is spontaneity that produces the outcome”.
Work to date is focused on vessels – large and small containers for holding, receiving, giving. These are made in various organic shapes and surfaces are meant to evoke a sense of time - Of natural forces corroding or eroding. This is accomplished by layering slips, oxides, and glazes that react and crack in their firing. Unexpected outcomes are exciting and welcome! The addition of found metal takes some pieces further toward a narrative. Most recently, the bowl shapes have shifted to long low vessels. Almost boat like – on the cusp of a new journey!
The rest of the story
Doni is inspired by our journeys as human beings - by the poetry, song, prose and imagery that attempt to do them justice. She hopes to do as much with clay.
In her early adult career Doni owned and operated The Finish Line – a decorative painting and faux finish company near Houston, Texas for 25 years. Her educational background includes Interior design studies through Parson’s School of Design in New York, ceramic studies with Roy Hanscom at North Harris College TX, and numerous ceramic arts mentors across the world. Some of her favorite influences include Debra Fritz, Sharon Griffin, and Jane Yang-D’Haene.
She works and lives in Montgomery, Texas with her husband, Mark and cat Philip.
