Artist Statement – Darlene Fort   An artist’s work is often an expression of a personal experience which may convey feelings across time and space.  The objects of this work are presented for others to view, react, and understand in many different ways.   I find joy in working with clay as it continues to have a mystical quality I can use to transform ideas into my reality.  Experiencing the quiet nature of hand building to the rhythmic pleasure of making pots on the wheel, clay offers understandable relaxation.  My art is play, not work!   Most of my pots are whimsical and communicate life to those who encounter them.  Animals are a continual source of design inspiration which I use to create small sculptures and animal face jugs.  Fortunately, it is an endless creative journey that I travel.                   Rock Pottery derived its name from my husband’s middle name: Herbert Rock Fort.   Potter’s Marks             Herbert signs his pots as “Rock” or “Rock Fort” or "RF"             Darlene signs her pots as “D Fort” or “DF”   Our studio is located in Harlem, Georgia near Augusta   Rock’s pottery is wheel thrown and is combined with hand building.  He specializes in face jugs.