Limestone Professor Carolyn Ford Has Work Featured At Napa Art Exhibit In California

Carolyn Ford, a Professor of Art at Limestone University, recently took part in the “Terracotta Corridor” exhibition in Napa, CA.

The exhibition took place in the Rail Arts District Napa from December 3 through New Year’s Day. It featured artworks made at Mission Clay Art and Industry of Mission Clay Products, LLC, where Ford completed a sabbatical and artist residency in 2020.

Mission Clay Products, LLC is known for the manufacturing of sustainable earthquake-resistant ceramic sewer pipes fired in the world’s largest kilns. While at the factory, Ford completed her third art “column” made from a two-plus ton extruded sewer pipe, sgraffito low relief carved drawings, and underglaze color. Once it was fired in the kiln, it was able to withstand the harsh conditions it might endure as public art.

Ford’s work is one of 22 total sculptures. The exhibition ran along two miles of the Napa Valley Wine Trail, where the artwork could be seen via train, bike, or on foot. 

“I’m honored to be a part of this public art exhibition amongst hardworking talented individuals,” Ford said. “I’ve worked extremely hard to expand my viewing audience by applying to nationally juried exhibits as well as locally.”

Ford traveled to California in early December to take part in the programming in conjunction with the exhibition, such as the opening celebration, a panel discussion, and a bike tour along the trail. Ford and the other artists were also interviewed for a video that will be produced showcasing the exhibition and manufacturing processes related to clay pipe art. Filming will take place in Napa and at Mission Clay in Phoenix, AZ.

The Rail Arts District Napa (RAD) is a linear public art district in Napa Valley, with a mission of bringing contemporary art to everyone. It connects local businesses, underserved neighborhoods, and the Napa community through art. RAD supports creativity through programming opportunities to learn, create, and experiment in public spaces. It encourages the development of artistic ideas and practices for both adult and student artists and contributes to the cultural life and prosperity of the region as an international destination.